Institute of Politics: Do We Have an Equal RIGHT to a Healthy Environment? Why Voting & Civil Rights are Vital to Climate Justice

Studies show that Black and Brown voters are the most likely demographic to vote for policies and people that will protect the environment. In fact, polling after the 2020 election showed that 68% of Democrats listed climate change as a top concern, as opposed to only 11% of Republicans. Immediately after the finalization of all elections with outcomes heavily in favor of Democrats, states began an assault on voting rights across the country. How can we insure equitable climate policy when the voters most likely to vote are excluded from the process? This session will examine the history of civil rights and voting litigation and the important role it will play in determining whether our climate future is truly equal.