What is Environmental Justice?
Consistent with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act – No person in the United States shall, on the basis of race, color or national origin be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be subject to discrimination under any programs or activity receiving Federal financial assistance. We strive
- To avoid, minimize or mitigate disproportionately high and adverse human health and environmental effects, including social and economic effects on minority and low income populations.
- To ensure the full and fair participation by all potentially affected communities in the transportation decision-making process.
- To prevent the denial of, reduction in or significant delay in the receipt of benefits by minority and low income populations.
For more information see the final USDOT Order 5610.2 on Environmental Justice, issued in the April 15, 1997 Federal Register.
Definitions
- Black
- Hispanic or Latino
- Asian American
- American Indian & Alaskan Native
- Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander
- Low Income: a person whose median household income is at or below the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services poverty guidelines.
