Justice Department Celebrates Two-Year Anniversary of Comprehensive Environmental Justice Enforcement Strategy and Office of Environmental Justice

Article: The Justice Department is celebrating the two-year anniversary of its Comprehensive Environmental Justice Enforcement Strategy (CEJES) and Office of Environmental Justice (OEJ). These initiatives are aimed at addressing environmental injustice in the United States. In line with President’s Executive Order “Revitalizing Our Nation’s Commitment to Environmental Justice for All,” the Justice Department will be developing an Environmental Justice Strategic Plan to further advance their efforts.

The Environmental Justice Strategic Plan will focus on implementing a vision, setting goals, identifying priority actions, and establishing metrics to address and promote environmental justice. To ensure public input, the Justice Department is organizing virtual and in-person listening sessions where individuals can provide feedback on the draft goals and actions of the plan. The sessions will cover various topics, including prioritizing cases, engaging with affected communities, promoting education and collaboration, and evaluating environmental justice in climate adaptation efforts.

Acting Associate Attorney General Benjamin C. Mizer emphasized the Justice Department’s commitment to securing relief for environmental justice communities. Assistant Attorney General Todd Kim expressed pride in the positive impact the Office of Environmental Justice and comprehensive enforcement strategy have had on overburdened and underserved communities. OEJ Director Cynthia Ferguson is leading the development of the Environmental Justice Strategic Plan and encourages public participation in shaping its implementation.

The draft plan includes virtual and in-person listening sessions, and interested participants can register on the OEJ’s website. Written comments can also be submitted via email or mail. The Justice Department’s dedication to environmental justice was further reinforced by an interagency statement released by the Civil Rights Division and five other federal agencies, reaffirming their commitment to upholding civil rights laws and advancing environmental justice initiatives.

As the Justice Department commemorates the two-year anniversary of its environmental justice efforts, it is clear that they are determined to continue addressing environmental inequities and creating a more just and sustainable future for all.

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