The need to pursue environmental justice does not end at the water’s edge. Access to ocean resources and influence in shaping ocean policy have long been inequitable across racial, economic, and generational lines as a result of the legacies of racism, colonialism, and industrialization. At the same time, historically marginalized communities in coastal communities are disproportionately affected by the climate crisis, including rising sea levels and intensifying storms, as well as by pollution, overfishing, loss of habitat and biodiversity, and coastal gentrification.
However, across the United States, ocean justice communities are shifting that narrative and building and exerting real power in ocean and climate decision-making, policy development, and management.
This event will prioritize the experiences and voices of historically marginalized communities in ocean conservation discussions. We ask that all attendees be respectful of and intentional about the focus of the symposium.
This event is supported by Earthjustice, the Natural Resources Defense Council, Ocean Defense Initiative, and Green 2.0.