Black Studies and the Production of Environmental Justice Knowledge

Abstract

A collaborative effort at Williams College has pioneered an innovative approach to environmental justice education, equipping precollege and undergraduate students with interdisciplinary skills to support communities pursuing environmental equity. This initiative emphasizes practical, community-engaged research to address the environmental challenges faced by marginalized communities. The program has seen students actively contribute to environmental science testing, oral history collection, and geographic mapping in regions such as St. Louis Metro East and Florida’s Gulf Coast, significantly mitigating the impacts of environmental contamination and advancing environmental justice. This program not only provides valuable knowledge to affected communities but also prepares students for further education and professional careers. Our Black Studies framework informs our methods, which heavily rely on sustained community engagement to inform the production of interdisciplinary knowledge. By fostering lasting partnerships and integrating technical advancements with community involvement, our approach underscores the potential for collaborative research to contribute meaningfully to environmental justice and public health advocacy.