Language selection

Government of Canada / Gouvernement du Canada

Search

Insights and perspectives: Canada’s Environmental Justice and Racism Symposium

Introduction

On June 20, 2024, Private Member's Bill C-226, National Strategy Respecting Environmental Racism and Environmental Justice Act became law. The Government of Canada recognizes the need to advance environmental justice across Canada. It is also important to continue to work toward eliminating racism and racial discrimination in all their forms and manifestations.

The purpose of Canada's Environmental Justice and Racism Symposium was to enable civil society to participate in pre-consultation related to the development of a national strategy to assess, prevent, and address environmental racism and to advance environmental justice. This forum was intended to facilitate a national discussion with those already working on environmental racism and justice issues within the Canadian context.

In Canada, there is no definition of environmental justice that is accepted by everyone. Instead, environmental justice is considered a concept that can be applied in various contexts. Environmental justice is a movement seeking to ensure fair and meaningful inclusion of affected peoples and equal sharing of benefits and costs when making decisions about the environment. When making these decisions, environmental justice aims to recognize and seek to address the existing inequalities faced by Indigenous, racialized, or otherwise marginalized communities.

Environmental justice is based on three key principles:

Summary

Canada’s Environmental Justice and Racism Symposium was part of early engagement for the National Strategy Respecting Environmental Racism and Environmental Justice Act (the Act). Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) hosted the event to begin a national conversation on environmental justice and racism. Environmental justice is led by communities. The Act reflects years of advocacy by affected communities, youth, researchers, and environmental organizations.

The Symposium aimed to bring together people working on environmental justice to share ideas, experiences, and knowledge. It was the first national event of its kind in Canada. The Symposium took place on September 13–14, 2024. Over 300 people joined in person and online. Participants included youth, people with lived experience of environmental racism, academics, advocates, and policy experts. The event created space for open dialogue and learning across sectors and regions.

This Perspectives and Insights Report summarizes what was shared during the two-day event. It highlights key themes, ideas, and resources from participants. The report follows the structure of the Act, which focuses on assessing, preventing, and addressing environmental racism, and advancing environmental justice. The insights shared in this report will help inform the development of Canada’s first National Strategy on Environmental Justice.

Key themes

During the Symposium, participants shared ideas for new and different ways to develop and apply policy. Four key themes came up across presentations and discussions. These themes reflect what is needed to advance environmental justice in Canada.

  1. Identifying, acknowledging and addressing root causes of environmental racism and facilitating strategy outcomes that enable systemic change
    • Participants called for policies that go beyond surface-level fixes
      • They emphasized the need to identify and address the deeper causes of environmental racism
    • These include settler-colonialism, systemic racism, and the impacts of capitalism
      • Many pointed to resource extraction and development that harms people and the environment
    • They also highlighted how industry regulations can affect communities exposed to pollution
      • To make real progress, participants stressed the importance of strategies that lead to long-term, systemic change
  2. People-centered decision-making
    • People affected by environmental racism should be meaningfully involved in decisions that impact their communities
      • Their knowledge, lived experiences, and data should be valued equally alongside other sources of information
    • This means creating space for real participation—not just consultation. It also means sharing information in ways that are culturally and locally relevant
      • When communities have the right tools and context, they can contribute more fully to decisions that affect them
    • Learning should happen throughout the engagement process, not just at the start or end
  3. Intergenerational equity and exchange
    • Environmental justice is a community-led movement. To grow and succeed, it must focus on building capacity within communities
      • Youth play a key role – they carry forward advocacy efforts and help protect their community’s connection to the environment
    • Educating young people and involving them in decision-making is essential
      • Working across generations helps share knowledge and strengthen community leadership
    • It’s also important to consider intergenerational equity—how today’s decisions will affect future generations
      • Supporting youth and intergenerational collaboration helps advance environmental justice in lasting and meaningful ways
  4. A strength-based approach to environmental justice
    • Environmental justice means more than just protecting people from harm and involving them in decisions – it’s about helping communities thrive
    • This includes creating good, sustainable jobs, supporting conservation work, making sure all communities—especially those affected by environmental racism—share in the benefits, and building on the work that communities are already doing

Assessing environmental racism

The Assessing Environmental Racism Panel brought together experts to talk about how environmental racism is measured today. They also discussed what should be considered when planning a national study on the issue.

Speakers

Summary

In the context of assessing environmental racism, panelists emphasized that different types of data to tell a different story. This includes stories, personal experiences, and observations shared by communities, along with traditional data like numbers and statistics. When collecting this information, it’s important to work with affected communities and understand what kinds of data matter most to them.

“What is easy to measure isn’t necessarily indicative of the whole picture”- Dr. Amanda Giang

Panelists spoke about the challenges of doing a national study on environmental racism. They pointed out gaps in the data, such as missing or incomplete information, limited data on certain chemicals or processes, and errors from industry self-reporting. Some communities, especially marginalized ones, are also left out of existing datasets.

While national indicators can help give a big-picture view, they may overlook the unique experiences of different communities. Panelists suggested other approaches, like studying multiple sites or using community-identified harms as indicators. They also recommended creating indicators based on the priorities of specific population groups, which could help reflect cultural and social differences more accurately.

Because communities face different environmental challenges, it’s important to capture those differences and take a tailored approach. Panelists also stressed the need to use data to better understand how environmental racism works and what causes it.

Intergenerational discussion: Vanessa Hartley & Louise Delisle

A key focus of the Environmental Justice and Racism Symposium was the importance of youth engagement on environmental justice and racism issues. To emphasize this, two intergenerational discussions took place, empowering Elders and youth leading within the environmental justice space to engage in dialogue around the advancement of environmental justice within the Canadian context.

Speakers

Summary

Louise Delisle and Vanessa Hartley are community leaders from Shelburne, a Black community in Nova Scotia with a long history of environmental racism. They sat down to share what advancing environmental justice means to them.

“The heart of your knowledge is in your roots” – Vanessa Hartley

“Racial injustice has no place in our lives ever – it’s time we choose to live in a different way (…) This Bill is a victory for all of us, who thought we’d never be heard, that no one was listening to us” – Louise Delisle

For 75 years, Shelburne’s former dump burned garbage, releasing harmful fumes into the community. Although the landfill closed in 2016, residents are still dealing with water contamination today.

“It’s very hard to explain the sick feeling of breathing in smoke that was constant, ash, plastic, paper, oil, gas, old clothes (…) it’s something that most people don’t want to talk about because it’s traumatic. To this day, there is still trauma behind environmental racism in Shelburne” – Louise Delisle

Louise and Vanessa said decision-makers need to take responsibility when working with communities. They should listen with care and respect. They must understand environmental and systemic racism. They also need to recognize how government actions have harmed communities in the past.

“There needs to be more strength behind what we know as a community …anecdotal information…this shows how we live, and it needs to be counted” – Louise Delisle

They highlighted the importance of hearing directly from people with lived experience. It’s essential to engage with individuals from affected communities—not just those speaking on their behalf. Many people carry trauma and may worry their voices won’t be heard or fear consequences for sharing their experiences.

“It’s a terrible thing when you feel no one was listening to you or protecting you from harm or feeling like repercussions would come if you spoke about something that was killing you” – Louise Delisle

Vanessa and Louise spoke about the barriers and racism that make it hard for communities to take part in environmental decisions. They highlighted how shared identity and history help African Nova Scotian communities come together to fight environmental racism. They also stressed the importance of supporting the next generation to keep moving environmental justice forward.

“You are the next generation, you are the ones that will keep the communities alive, the ones who now need to pick up this gauntlet that’s been passed down the generations (…) It’s important that the young people have a place and a voice because we didn’t have that voice when we were younger” – Louise Delisle

Preventing environmental racism

The Act calls for a strategy to advance environmental justice and address environmental racism. This includes steps like updating federal laws, policies, and programs. The Preventing Environmental Racism Panel explored legal and regulatory challenges, opportunities, and ideas to help move environmental justice forward in Canada.

Speakers

Summary

Panelists said the Act could help create a more coordinated and fair approach to environmental issues across the federal government. It offers a chance to review laws, programs, and policies using environmental justice principles, and to make sure those principles are applied consistently in other environmental laws.

A common theme in the discussion was the need for stronger industry rules. Panelists talked about creating laws that stop development when it causes too much harm to certain communities. They also stressed the need for measures that prevent future harm, especially to disadvantaged groups across Canada.

“Law is very slow to change, and sometimes socializing concepts is the first wave of change that comes through”- Victoria Watson

Panelists spoke about Indigenous land defenders and emphasized that their actions are part of Indigenous law. These actions connect to Canada’s commitments under the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act and other laws that support Indigenous rights, self-determination, and governance. They also highlighted the need to rethink the idea of trespassing, especially when Indigenous Peoples are protecting their traditional lands. While there are challenges with overlapping responsibilities in the environmental sector, panelists noted that federal funding and constitutional authority over Indigenous issues offer chances for leadership.

Institutionalizing environmental justice in the Canadian context

Participants shared examples from experience, research, and other countries. They showed how environmental justice could be built into government systems across Canada. This included:

Unique challenges facing communities

Several participants spoke about their lived experience around environmental risks and hazards, and access to decision-making. A common theme across the experiences shared was the unique jurisdictional challenges which exist for some communities, including:

Beyond jurisdictional challenges are the layered social, economic and health issues facing communities impacted by instances of environmental injustice and racism, in addition to concerns related to cumulative impacts related to pollution.

In addressing these unique challenges, measures at the community level such as pollution monitoring, data collection by community, established processes to engage community members; as well as institutionalized, government-led approaches including the application of the precautionary principle, transgenerational equity and the ‘right to know’ in decision-making processes were shared by participants as suggested approaches.

Addressing environmental racism

The goal of the Addressing Environmental Racism Panel was to explore measures proposed in the Act. These include involving community groups in environmental decision-making and offering compensation to affected individuals or communities. The panel focused on how to respond to environmental racism in fair and equitable ways.

Speakers

Summary

A key theme from the panel was the need to recognize environmental racism as systemic. Speakers stressed that racism is structural, layered, and interconnected. It affects the health, safety, and well-being of Black, Indigenous, and racialized communities in Canada. Addressing environmental racism means tackling its root causes, including:

Panelists also noted the close ties between regulators and industry, often at the expense of people and nature. One speaker shared the isolation felt when confronting systemic racism. They highlighted the emotional and social toll of fighting injustice.

“The 8th generation today is suffering from environmental racism (...) it affects their future” - Marlene Hale

Panelists called for strength-based approaches to fight environmental racism. They highlighted the value of supporting community-led solutions. These efforts build on existing community strengths and promote environmental justice. Examples included community benefits agreements, mutual aid, and land trusts. Sites of Indigenous land defense were also named as grassroots solutions. These initiatives offer powerful ways to address environmental racism from the ground up.

Speakers pointed to barriers that prevent communities from joining policy-making. These include mistrust in government and damaged relationships. They also mentioned internal community challenges and conflicts. Panelists stressed that rebuilding trust takes time and effort. It means facing ongoing issues and acknowledging past harms. Governments must stop actions that continue environmental racism. They must also offer redress before working on shared priorities.

Speakers said communities need support to lead in environmental decision-making. This includes help understanding technical language, policies, and processes.

Environmental racism often connects to other issues like health care, jobs, and education. Engaging with communities on their priorities is key. This approach can also support goals like community development and new partnerships.

Panelists called for consent-based processes led by communities. Communities should help create and measure indicators of success.

Governments must move beyond siloed approaches. They should address root causes in a holistic and transformative way.

Novel and restorative responses to environmental racism

The Act’s preamble recognizes Canada’s commitment to addressing environmental racism. It also commits to giving affected communities a voice in finding solutions. At the Symposium, participants shared ideas on what addressing harm could look like. They explored how to respond meaningfully to environmental racism in Canada.

Participants emphasized the challenges in estimating and monetizing damage to communities and the land. They called for new approaches to compensation and accountability. This includes rethinking how harm is measured and valued. Panelists also urged stronger regulations to ensure polluters comply. These steps are essential to meaningfully address environmental racism.

Participants identified that existing mechanisms, such as the Environmental Damages Fund could be leveraged to include compensation specifically for instances of environmental racism. Restorative approaches such as government investment in conservation-related efforts and other sustainable programming that provide economic opportunities for communities were also suggested.

Participants raised concerns about the mental health and well-being impacts of environmental injustice. They emphasized the importance of supporting a community’s healing process. This includes recognizing long-term emotional effects and investing in recovery. Healing must be part of the response to environmental racism.

Intergeneration discussion: Dan Mercredi & Stacey-Anne Bryenton

Youth engagement was a key focus of the Environmental Justice and Racism Symposium.

Two intergenerational discussions highlighted this priority. These conversations brought together Elders and youth leading in environmental justice. They shared ideas on advancing environmental justice in Canada. The dialogue empowered youth and honored the wisdom of Elders.

“Strength comes not just from survival but the bonds we create, respect and hold around us” – Dan Mercredi

Speakers

Summary

The Symposium’s second intergenerational discussion featured Dan Mercredi and Stacey-Anne Breyton. Dan shared his experiences growing up in Fort Chipewyan, Alberta, a community impacted by oil sands development. Stacey-Anne is of mixed Ojibwe and European ancestry, with roots in Poland and Whitefish River First Nation. She works as a Junior Policy Analyst on the Environmental Justice and Gender-Based Analysis team at ECCC. Their dialogue highlighted lived experiences and leadership in advancing environmental justice in Canada.

“Growing up along Athabasca Lake in the early 70s was characterized by a blend of hardship and beauty. Ongoing environmental challenges reminds us of the importance of advocacy and stewardship for future generations” – Dan Mercredi

Dan described his land-based, traditional lifestyle growing up in Fort Chipewyan in the 1970s. Despite limited infrastructure, life followed the seasons and rhythm of the land. The water was pristine, reflecting a healthy and untouched ecosystem. Residents relied on the lake for drinking water, fishing, and daily needs. His story highlighted the deep connection between community well-being and the natural environment.

Dan spoke about the decline in water quality over the past 50 years due to industrial activity. This pollution has created serious health risks for his community. He also described the layered impacts of climate change. Together, these environmental issues lead to complex social challenges. These include food and water insecurity and threats to cultural traditions. Passing down traditional knowledge is harder as the natural environment changes.

“Experiences of environmental racism and physical and mental health challenges are prevalent, with increased rates of various cancers and barriers to access medical care” – Dan Mercredi

In addition to pollution, Dan highlighted systemic barriers facing his community. He spoke about the lack of recognitional justice in decision-making spaces. Dan shared concerns about limited engagement and transparency around Impact Benefit Agreements. He noted that polluters often prioritize short-term economic gains over long-term environmental health. This leads to a lack of genuine consent from First Nations members. It also creates barriers for communities seeking justice and accountability.

“Solutions must be rooted in culture – ensuring communities are better able to adapt to climate impacts” – Dan Mercredi

Dan stressed the importance of engaging youth in conversations about sustainability and environmental justice. He advocated for empowering youth in the pursuit of justice. This includes creating space for youth to speak about mental health. He noted that mental health is deeply connected to the environment. “When our environment is threatened, or resources are scarce, it creates a ripple effect on the mental health of the youth.”

Many youth are struggling to find stable jobs and affordable housing. Sustainable workforce options are limited in many communities. Dan stressed that economic opportunities should not come at the cost of the planet. Youth should not have to choose between employment and protecting the environment. Strategies that prioritize sustainability and justice can create green jobs for youth. These jobs support both community well-being and a healthier future.

Despite the challenges, Dan described Fort Chipewyan residents as active in defending their rights and the environment. The community maintains a strong connection to the land. Many continue traditional practices while also living modern lifestyles. Cultural events and gatherings help preserve Fort Chipewyan’s rich heritage. These traditions foster pride, resilience, and a deep sense of identity.

“Everyone needs to be involved in decision-making. Resources are needed for studying and monitoring the water situation. Youth centers are needed to facilitate engagement, promoting cultural revitalization, we need research funding and capacity. Renewable energy, education, awareness, training. Solutions should be grounded in the needs of present and future generations” – Dan Mercredi

Advancing environmental justice

The closing panel of the Symposium gave youth leaders the final word. Young people working in the environmental space shared their visions for justice. They spoke about what advancing environmental justice in Canada means to them. Their voices highlighted the importance of youth leadership and lived experience.

Speakers

Summary

Panelists approached environmental justice from emotional, spiritual, and personal perspectives. They emphasized the importance of the natural environment in the lives of racialized Canadians. Access to nature is shaped by varied histories, contexts, and lived experiences. These differences affect how communities understand and express environmental racism. Speakers stressed the need to work with communities that may not have organized around environmental justice. Understanding their unique experiences is key to meaningful engagement and action.

Key policy recommendations from panelists included:

“Your existence in a system that doesn’t represent you is an act of resistance that supports your people” – Vanessa Hartley

Panelists emphasized the power of working across communities to advance environmental justice. Four accomplished environmental leaders shared their lived experiences as racialized people in environmental spaces. They spoke about both the opportunities and the responsibility of representing their communities. Young leaders were encouraged to reflect on what they bring to this work. They were also reminded to take the time and space they need on their journey. This message highlighted the importance of care, reflection, and community in environmental justice leadership.

“All of us have something to contribute, to whatever degree we are able. We are not all on the earth to make the biggest change – some of us are best suited for smaller scale actions –or actions of varying degrees”– Zola Mirenge

Communicating Environmental Justice and Racism

A key theme throughout the Symposium was the need for a nuanced approach to environmental justice and racism. This approach should be accessible and relevant to the diverse realities of different communities.

Participants emphasized that a community’s history and culture shape how environmental issues are understood. This means communication must be nuanced and culturally appropriate. Effective translation should consider symbols, concepts, values, and terms that resonate with each community. To close communication gaps, communities should lead their own messaging and translation efforts. This approach ensures that environmental justice work is rooted in lived experience and local knowledge.

Participants consistently highlighted the role of education when engaging communities.

They noted that local and tangible examples are important. Broader examples of environmental racism may not reflect a community’s specific context. There is also a need to consider different types of learning, especially technical learning. Tailored education helps make environmental justice more accessible and relevant.

When describing examples of environmental racism, it is essential to engage impacted individuals. They should help shape how their experiences are shared and represented. One participant noted that their community preferred a balanced approach to imagery. This included showing the real impacts of industrial pollution alongside the beauty and vitality of their home. This approach respects both the challenges and the deep connection communities have to their land.

Resource library

Speakers shared the following resources over the span of the Symposium.

Articles

Briefs

Community-led Initiative

Youth Educational Toolkits

Video

Suggested Reading

Page details

Date modified: