Panel 2: Seeking Environmental Justice Through the Dialogue Between Academia and Frontline Communities

In this panel, “Seeking Environmental Justice through the Dialogue between Academia and Frontline Communities,” we will showcase a series of capstone projects and partnerships that epitomize the collaborative efforts between university researchers and those most affected by environmental injustice. Through these presentations, we will explore the mechanisms through which academia can engage more deeply and effectively with frontline communities, focusing on projects that address environmental disparities and seek sustainable solutions. Discussions will center on strategies to promote such collaborative projects, ways to empower and support frontline communities effectively, and approaches to decolonizing academic practices to ensure equitable participation and representation. This panel aims to bridge the gap between theoretical research and practical, community-led action, highlighting the importance of mutual learning and shared goals in the pursuit of environmental justice.

1:40 PM

• Introduction & Welcoming 
  • Jackie Klopp & Charlotte Biocchi  
• Moderator
  • Annie Carforo, WE ACT, Climate Justice Manager

• NYC Panelist
  • Summer Sandoval, Policy Advisor, Clean Energy & Equity, EJNYC, Mayor’s Office of Climate & Environmental Justice

• Columbia Panelists 
  • Amy X. Chen, Staten Island Urban Center: Making Way for the MERC (class: Building Climate Justice: Co-Creative Coastal Resilience Planning)
  • Paul Gallay, Director of the Resilient Coastal Communities Program 

• CUNY Panelists 

• Ayesha Khan, Climate and Health Implementation in Medical School Education 

• Alex Diaz, Harlem Housing Project
• Marileidy Pimentel, WE ACT, CCNY graduate, WE ACT for Environmental Justice, Bilingual Community Organizer | Organizadora Comunitaria Bilingue