CJA Executive Director KD Chavez Responds to EPA’s Cancellation of Climate Justice Alliance Grant
In response to the EPA’s decision to cancel the grant for the Climate Justice Alliance (CJA), KD Chavez, Executive Director of CJA, issued the following statement:
The Administration continues its attacks on working class communities, rural and urban families with its announcement of the cancellation of the Climate Justice Alliance’s UNITE-EJ program grant. Unfortunately, the Biden administration failed to process these obligated funds intended to help communities facing disasters from climate change and left the decision in the hands of the Trump administration. Despite claims that this administration will protect clean water and clean air for the nation it has attacked basic protections for neglected communities from day one.
The UNITE-EJ program was specifically designed to challenge an inefficient governance process that has historically failed to protect regular people. It would have channeled resources into projects that not only protect public health and safety but also create sustainable economic opportunities for jobs. This program would have clearly benefited taxpayers and working-class families.
Our communities, rural and urban families, are experiencing attacks on our neighborhoods, families, public health, social well-being infrastructure, and an increase in misinformation and harm that aims to scapegoat non-white and non-rich people. Frontline and environmental justice communities, in particular, are clear on our mandate: we will protect our legislative wins as much as possible and safeguard our communities while forging ahead with innovative community solutions that benefit all of us.
