News

February is Black History Month, a nationwide celebration lifting up the significant roles Black Americans have had in shaping U.S. history. In honor of Black History Month, Sound Rivers is sharing weekly opportunities to learn more about how community activists have shaped environmental justice in eastern North Carolina.

This week, we’re lifting up some of the organizations taking on environmental justice issues today. Please take some time to visit their websites and learn more about what they do.

North Carolina Environmental Justice Network

NCEJN promotes health and environmental quality through community action, advocacy, research and education. Visit NCEJN.

Franklinton Center at Bricks, Inc.

A sprawling property in Edgecombe County, the Franklinton Center at Bricks features a Dining Hall, Memorial Hall, Hospitality House and is host to many educational programs, from partnerships with Edgecombe Co. Public Schools to a working farm and hiking trails. It’s also a generous host of one of Sound Rivers’ camping platforms along the Pamlico-Tar Water Trail. Visit the Franklinton Center.

Down East Coal Ash Environmental and Social Justice Coalition

A grassroots organization that was instrumental in demanding Duke Energy clean up millions of tons of toxic coal ash polluting land and water in North Carolina. Watch Down East President Bobby Jones talk about the Duke Coal Ash issue on NowThis News.

Rural Empowerment Association for Community Help

REACH is based in Duplin County, where industrial hog facilities are thick on the ground, as is the pollution that goes along with them. REACH has a mission to educate and empower to lead. This includes through environmental justice. Visit REACH.