Environmental Justice
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Background
"Environmental Justice is defined as the search for a just solution to the disproportionate burdens of environmental degradation borne by the poor and people of color. For example, this would include urban revitalization efforts like brownfields and the protection of low-income neighborhoods from toxic hazards." (U.S. Catholic Bishops, Environmental Justice Public Policy Framework)
Mission of the U.S. Bishop's Environmental Justice Program
The Environmental Justice Program (EJP) seeks to educate and motivate Catholics to a deeper reverence and respect for God's creation, and to engage parishes and dioceses in activities aimed at dealing with environmental problems, particularly as they affect the poor. EJP acts as a resource for Catholic dioceses and state Catholic conferences, and through them Catholic parishes.
Act
Individuals
- Learn more about Catholic Relief Services' work on water and sanitation projects
- Participate in a Community Supported Agriculture program (CSA)
- Shop at your local Farmers' Market
Parishes- Plant a community garden and help feed the community
- Contact the Office of Life, Justice & Peace for resources to host an Environment Workshop
- The Columbia River Watershed: Caring for Creation and the Common Good: A Reflection Guide
- Renewing the Face of the Earth, by the USCCB and the National Catholic for Environmental Justice
- Renew the Face of the Earth: An Opportunity to Live Out Your Faith by Embracing the Principles of Catholic Social Teaching on the Environment (Through Prayer, Reflection, Education and Action!)
- Take the St. Francis Pledge to Care for Creation and the Poor
- Participate in a Community Supported Agriculture program (CSA)
Learn
Educate Your Parish
Vatican
- Pope Benedict XVI's 2010 World Peace Day Statement: If You Want To Cultivate Peace, Work For Creation
- Pope John Paul II, The Ecological Crisis: A Common Responsibility
USCCB
- USCCB: 2010 World Peace Day: Resource Guide
- USCCB: Environmental Justice Department
- Columbia River Pastoral Letter Project
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