Van, I have wanted for some time to write, thanking you for being at the forefront of working for environmental justice. As Pope Francis vehemently preaches about the deleterious effects of climate change, particularly how the poor are disproportionately impacted, I am reminded of the need for black Americans to be more actively involved in environmentalism. Many of us live in neighborhoods with old, often historic, houses; these houses can be renovated, and these communities made safe and whole again. I like to say that historic preservation is the ultimate act of recycling. Our people are also more negatively impacted by pollution of air and soil; noise is also a damaging pollutant. Unfortunately, too often environmental activism, historic preservation, and related activities, are viewed as something reserved for white people. Black folks need to get over this way of thinking, and get involved, and thanks in large part to your work, many have.
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