Critical Theory/Social Justice

"Environmental justice" means ensuring equal access to environmental benefits and preventing the disproportionate impacts of environmental harm for all communities, regardless of race, gender, class, or other social positions. In this introductory course, we will examine key United States cases involving environmental justice using a Critical Race Theory framework so that we can see the ways race, gender, and class have shaped environmental battles still being fought today. Students will also learn about traditional and emerging environmental justice topics, and the innovative methods attorneys use to address systemic environmental inequalities.