Standing Together for Environmental Justice

When we talk about caring for creation, we often think about recycling, planting trees, or conserving water. But caring for creation also means caring for people, especially those who are most affected by pollution, unsafe environments, or unfair policies. That’s the heart of what’s called environmental justice.

The modern environmental justice movement began right here in North Carolina. In the early 1980s, residents of Warren County, a mostly Black, rural, and low-income community, learned that their town had been chosen as the site of a landfill for toxic waste contaminated with PCBs. They protested for weeks, joined by civil rights and faith leaders from across the country. Even though the landfill was ultimately built, their courage and persistence sparked a national conversation about fairness, dignity, and the right of every community to live in a healthy environment.

That story reminds us that environmental issues are never just about land or air or water. They’re about people: our neighbors, families, and children whose health and safety are at stake. Studies have shown that communities of color and low-income neighborhoods are far more likely to face environmental hazards, from polluted water to industrial waste sites. These patterns don’t happen by accident. They reflect deeper social and economic inequalities that our faith calls us to confront.

As followers of Christ, we’re invited to see environmental justice as part of our Gospel mission. When one community suffers, we all suffer. When we work for clean water, safe housing, and healthy neighborhoods, we are living out our baptismal call to protect life and uphold the dignity of every person.

Here at Holy Infant, we can be part of that mission in simple, meaningful ways. We can learn more about local environmental issues, especially those affecting vulnerable communities nearby. We can partner with organizations that help families dealing with pollution or unsafe housing. We can advocate for fair policies that protect everyone, not just those with influence or wealth. And we can continue striving to make our parish itself a model of stewardship and sustainability.

The people of Warren County didn’t win their fight overnight, but their witness changed the country. They showed that faith, courage, and community can bring hope even in the face of injustice.

May we follow their example. May Holy Infant always be a parish that listens, learns, and stands with those who are struggling; caring for creation and for one another, all in the name of Christ.

Learn more HERE.