Environmental justice, for those of you who may not be familiar with the term, goes something like this: no community should be saddled with more environmental burdens and less environmental benefits than any other.

In this quote, Majora Carter defines the concept of environmental justice, emphasizing that no community should bear an unfair share of environmental burdens while receiving fewer environmental benefits. This means that all communities, regardless of their socioeconomic status or geographic location, should have equal access to a healthy environment, clean air, water, and natural resources. Carter’s message calls for fairness and equity in the distribution of environmental resources and the avoidance of disproportionately placing pollution and other environmental hazards in marginalized areas.

Carter's statement challenges the longstanding reality where low-income and minority communities often face higher levels of environmental degradation and health risks. By drawing attention to these inequalities, Carter advocates for a more equitable approach to environmental policy and urban planning, ensuring that every community has access to clean spaces and the benefits of a safe environment. This perspective is crucial in addressing the intersection of environmental issues and social justice.

The origin of this quote is grounded in Carter’s career as an urban revitalization expert and environmental justice advocate. She has long been a champion for communities that have been historically neglected and disadvantaged in terms of environmental planning. Carter’s work, especially in her hometown of the South Bronx, has focused on ensuring that underserved communities receive the same environmental protections and opportunities as wealthier neighborhoods.

Ultimately, Carter’s quote serves as a call to action, urging a shift in how we think about environmental responsibility and justice. It challenges us to ensure that sustainable and equitable solutions are prioritized for all communities, especially those that have long been burdened with environmental harm.