EPA’s historic Office of Environmental Justice and External Civil Rights will position the agency to better advance environmental justice, enforce civil rights laws in overburdened communities, and deliver new grants and technical assistance

WASHINGTON (September 27, 2022) – In case you missed it, on Saturday, September 24, EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan announced that EPA is establishing a new national office charged with advancing environmental justice and civil rights. The creation of the new Office of Environmental Justice and External Civil Rights delivers on President Biden’s commitment to elevate these critical issues to the highest levels of the government and solidifies the agency’s commitment to delivering justice and equity for all.

Administrator Regan announced the creation of the new office alongside environmental justice and civil rights leaders in Warren County, North Carolina, which was the site of protests 40 years ago that launched the environmental justice movement. The office launch was covered by a number of outlets, including the Associated Press, The Washington Post, The New York Times, CNN, and was highlighted by leaders across the country, including Vice President Kamala Harris, Reverend Al Sharpton, Congressman G.K. Butterfield, Rev. Dr. William Barber II and more.

WATCH Administrator Regan’s office launch video HERE.

WATCH the full program from Saturday’s event in Warren County HERE. 

READ the Administrator’s remarks HERE.

Posted September 29, 2022