As we gather to celebrate Juneteenth, a day that symbolizes liberation and resilience, I find myself reflecting deeply on the intersections of our history and the current landscape of environmental justice. Growing up as a Black woman in Memphis, TN, I have witnessed firsthand the struggles and triumphs of our community. Yet, I also see how the fight for environmental equity has been overshadowed, especially amid the recent gaslighting from our new administration.

Environmental justice is not just a buzzword; it’s a vital movement rooted in the right to live in a safe, clean environment. It’s about recognizing that Black people and other communities of color have often borne the brunt of environmental degradation, pollution, toxic waste, and neglect. As our nation grapples with these issues, the rhetoric coming from the top can feel dismissive, almost as if our struggles are being trivialized.

The recent attempts to redefine environmental policies have raised alarm bells. We’ve seen the bastardization of our fight, where the voices of those most affected are sidelined in favor of corporate interests. We must remember that the legacy of Juneteenth is about empowerment and self-determination. It’s about our ancestors who fought for freedom, paving the way for us to advocate for our rights today.

In my beloved hometown Memphis, the Blackest city in the nation, to the Midwest and from coast to coast, we must stand firm. It is imperative that we continue to stand on environmental justice business by holding our leaders accountable and demand that environmental justice be prioritized in every policy decision. We cannot allow our struggles to be co-opted by those who do not understand the roots of our fight.

So, as we celebrate this Juneteenth, let us recommit ourselves to the cause of environmental justice. Let’s uplift our voices, educate our communities, and work together to ensure that the air we breathe and the water we drink are safe for all. We are still standing, and we will continue to rise. Our fight is as much about our environment as it is about our very existence. Let this Juneteenth be a reminder that liberation is an ongoing process, one that demands our vigilance and our voices.