On April 3-5, 2013, Howard University School of Law hosted the 2013 National Environmental Justice Conference. This was an opportunity for policymakers, educators, and activists to come together to learn about and discuss environmental justice issues. The conference involved members from federal, state, and local organizations. It focused on discussions regarding agency policies and practices, and how they affect environmental justice. Some of the topics on this years agenda included: consulting with tribal governments on policies and practices; the forest service's outreach to environmental justice communities; environmental justice activism from community organizations; how social status/demographics affect health; the EPA's superfund program; climate change; the Civil Rights Act and the role it plays in environmental justice; and the responsibility of industry in environmental justice. There were also environmental justice training workshops to help participants recognize and understand environmental justice issues when they see them, and to help with grant writing.

One particular presentation of note came from Kathleen Mecca, president of the Niagara Gateway Columbus Park Association in Buffalo, New York. Ms. Mecca was asked to present a case study about the Peace Bridge located on Buffalo's west side regarding the effects of diesel air pollution coming from the bridge on residents of the community. I came across a video on this very issue that I thought was interesting because it highlights the struggle the community faces, not just from the abundant pollution, but also due to procedural justice issues.

Check it out here: http://movetheplaza.com/a-health-epidemic-the-facts/nejc/
For more information on the 2013 conference, see: http://thenejc.org/?page_id=698
For infomation on the 2014 conference, see: http://thenejc.org/?conference=national-environmental-justice-conference-and-training-program