NCJW/Essex’s Lunch & Learn: Environmental Justice

Did you know there are more than 200 toxic sites in the Ironbound section of Newark, home to 50,000 people and the state’s largest garbage incinerator? The Ironbound’s surrounding industry has helped the local and regional economy but caused significant environmental degradation. This points to the growing question of how to achieve environmental justice, an idea that everyone – regardless of race, color or income – has the right to live in a clean and safe environment.

We will learn from experts about what is happening just 10 miles from Livingston, the impact on the wider community and what we can do to advocate for a healthier Essex County.

Our program features a screening of the short documentary, “The Sacrifice Zone,” followed by lunch and a panel discussion with:

A representative from the Ironbound Community Corporation. Founded in 1969, Ironbound Community Corporation’s (ICC’s) mission is to engage and empower individuals, families, and groups in realizing their aspirations and, together, work to create a just, vibrant and sustainable community.

Pam R. Factor-Litvak, PhD, Professor of Epidemiology at the Columbia University Medical Center, who studies children’s environmental health and the epidemiology of neurodegenerative disorders and examines early environmental factors (including contaminants, stress, maternal nutrition and other factors) on health across the life span.

The Ironbound Community Corporation also helps Newark residents experiencing food insecurity. We invite you to bring to the Lunch & Learn canned food (beans, fruits, vegetables) or other shelf-stable items that will be donated to the organization.