Environmental Justice
"You shall not pollute the land in which you live.... You shall not defile the land in which you live, in which I also dwell; for I the LORD dwell among the Israelites." Numbers 35:33-34
We are called to play a part in restoring God's perfect creation. We do this by advocating for policies, processes and systems that will not only help spur the renewal of our planet but will also allow for the fair treatment and meaningful involvement of all people, regardless of race or socioeconomic status, in the development of these laws and regulations. Because BIPOC communities are disproportionately affected by environmental stressors as they face inadequate access to clean air and water, healthy food and safe homes, concerns over climate change and the environment cannot be separated from social and economic justice issues.
Become Informed:
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Be introspective, prayerfully examining the United Methodist stance on social issues and your own beliefs and habits. Becoming a strong ally in a social justice movement requires ongoing self-reflection, learning, and openness to growth.
Books:
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All We Can Save (Wilkinson and Johnson, editors)
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On Care for Our Common Home (Pope Francis)
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The Story of More, How We Got to Climate Change and Where to Go From Here (Jahren)
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Braiding Sweetgrass (Kimmerer)
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Storming the Wall: Climate Change, Migration and Homeland Security (Todd Miller)
Articles:
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United Methodist Agencies Commit to Net-Zero Emissions by 2050
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"See Humans as Part of Creation" in Addressing Climate Change
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Flint's Children Suffer in Class After Years of Drinking the Lead-Poisoned Water
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Redlining Means 45 Million Americans Are Breathing Dirtier Air
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Press Release - VAUMC Commits to Net-Zero Greenhouse Gas Emissions by 2050
Websites:
Videos:
Podcasts:
Help:
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Be in prayer for those who are victims of environmental injustice and those who work to advocate for them
Advocate:
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Become involved in social justice ministry at Burke UMC
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Become involved in the Fairfax chapter of the Citizen's Climate Lobby