If we talk about the environment, for example, we have to talk about environmental racism - about the fact that kids in South Central Los Angeles have a third of the lung capacity of kids in Santa Monica.

In this quote, Danny Glover connects the issue of environmental protection with the concept of environmental racism. He points out that the environmental challenges we face are not experienced equally across all communities, especially when considering socio-economic and racial disparities. By citing the example of kids in South Central Los Angeles having a significantly lower lung capacity than those in wealthier areas like Santa Monica, Glover highlights how marginalized communities, particularly communities of color, often face the harshest environmental conditions.

Glover's statement underscores the idea that environmental issues are deeply intertwined with social justice. The fact that children in South Central, an area often associated with lower-income, predominantly Black and Latino communities, suffer from serious health problems due to pollution, illustrates a form of inequality that is not just economic but also racial. This disparity, which Glover refers to as environmental racism, shows that certain communities are more likely to bear the brunt of environmental harm, such as poor air quality, which can contribute to long-term health problems.

By bringing up environmental racism, Glover stresses the need for a more holistic discussion about environmental issues. It’s not enough to simply talk about protecting nature or reducing pollution; we must also address how those efforts are not equally distributed, and how some communities are disproportionately affected by environmental degradation. This brings attention to the systemic issues that allow environmental harm to be concentrated in specific areas, often along racial or class lines.

Ultimately, Danny Glover is calling for a more inclusive and equitable approach to addressing environmental issues, one that recognizes the intersection between environmental health and social inequality. His quote highlights the need to confront both the environmental problems and the racism that perpetuates unequal exposure to environmental hazards, urging for a broader, more just environmental movement.