Dollie Burwell, often called the “mother of the environmental justice movement,” played a pivotal role in its inception. In 1978, she began organizing community meetings in Warren County, North Carolina, to oppose the dumping of PCB-contaminated soil in a predominantly Black and low-income area. Burwell’s efforts included mobilizing faith communities from her UCC congregation and leading nonviolent protests, which were crucial in raising awareness about environmental racism. Her leadership in the six-week civil disobedience campaign in 1982, where she and over 500 others were arrested, highlighted the disproportionate impact of environmental hazards on marginalized communities. Despite losing the fight against the landfill, Burwell’s activism helped birth a nationwide movement advocating for the right to a safe and healthy environment. Her work continues to influence environmental justice policies today. On Sunday, October 13, Ms Burwell will worship with us. At noon, after fellowship, she will talk with us about her journey and the challenges of fighting environmental racism. sponsored by the Racial Justice Project of the Do Justice Ministry and the Environmental Justice group, contact the church office for more information, or find Jim Smith on Breeze.
If you need childcare, please let office.cucc@gmail.com know by October 6.