Environmental Justice

Equity & Environmental Justice: VNRC’s Commitment to Action

The boards and staff at VNRC and VCV are working to evaluate the influence of power and privilege within ourselves, our organizations, and the environmental movement as a whole; scrutinize how these dynamics shape our choices; and commit to addressing disparities. We know that growth demands consistent learning, persistence and evolution. We will hold ourselves accountable to each other, our members and supporters, and the communities impacted by our work.

Our efforts will be grounded in the following beliefs:

• • Systemic racism, economic disparities, and other forms of oppression deprive many Vermonters of access to a healthy environment and essential services, perpetuating inequity.
  • Some Vermonters, including BIPOC communities and people with median or lower incomes, are disproportionately impacted by climate change, polluted air and water, inadequate housing and mobility options, and economic strains.
  • Effective environmental policies address human needs and ensure justice for all.
  • Addressing historic inequities requires those with influence and resources, such as VNRC and VCV, to share that power with partners and impacted communities and ensure their insights shape both public discourse and decision-making.
  • Inclusivity is good for democracy. It is critical that all Vermonters have the opportunity to meaningfully engage and participate in decision-making processes at the state and local levels.
  • Internal culture shapes external impact; organizations that are transparent in their decision-making, provide opportunities for professional growth, and maintain welcoming and inclusive work environments are well-suited to reflect those values in their work

Our commitment to action is more than a pledge to weave justice and equity into the fabric of our organizations and the communities we serve. We want to forge a path toward a more just and equitable future for all, through mindful action and an unwavering dedication to learning. Our expertise enables us to navigate Vermont’s legislative, administrative, and legal landscapes to advocate for policies that support Vermont’s diverse population, a healthy environment for all, and a stronger democracy. We commit to ongoing efforts to build trust and deepen relationships with partners and communities who have been excluded and/or harmed in the past.