On July 16th, SAFE attended a local Environmental Justice Assistance Network (EJAN) Event, hosted by the Boston Bar Association, where we discussed the power and importance of community benefit agreements (CBAs).
By Mia Amaral
EJAN is a pro bono capacity-building referral network that works to match legal, scientific, public health, and technical experts with communities in Massachusetts that are addressing environmental justice challenges. The organization works to build the capacity of historically underrepresented communities in Massachusetts to respond to the legal and scientific needs. Grassroot, resident-led community groups are the foundations of strong movements for social justice. EJAN addresses issues like polluting businesses, proposals for development, polluted air, polluted water, garbage dumping, and various other health and environmental related issues.
By sharing the work SAFE has done in establishing CBA’s in Salem, we aim to highlight the importance of including communities in the conversation and ensuring that developments serve their needs.
SAFE is thankful to have been invited to speak about the work we have done and to support the mission of EJAN.
Mia Amaral is SAFE’s Summer Communications Intern.