Trump Administration Shuts Down the Environmental Justice Office

Concerns Rise Over the Future of Programs Protecting Vulnerable Communities from Pollution and Climate Change

WASHINGTON — President Donald Trump has placed all Environmental Protection Agency staff working on environmental justice (EJ) on leave, raising serious concerns among advocates and communities that rely on vital programs. Environmental justice is a fundamental right that we deserve and it addresses the disproportionate impacts of pollution and extreme weather on communities of color and low-income communities, who often face greater exposure to environmental hazards and have fewer resources to mitigate and adapt to these challenges.

“Closing the environmental justice office is concerning, as it leaves vulnerable communities unprotected and exposed to toxic pollution that threatens our health and the well-being of our families,” said Antonieta Cádiz, Deputy Executive Director of Climate Power En Acción. “Environmental justice programs are essential for supporting communities of color that lack the resources to combat pollution and environmental disasters in their areas. These initiatives are crucial to ensuring access to clean air and water. This decision, which aligns with Trump’s close ties to major polluters, reflects a complete disregard for the devastating impact their pollution has on marginalized communities. It will have a lasting effect on people of color across the country who need support to adapt to the climate crisis. Despite this setback, we remain committed to advocating for the protection of our communities.”