In a recent lecture at Arizona State University, Erika George, an influential law professor and associate dean at Boston University, highlighted how environmental issues are tied to human rights. Speaking to ASU law students, she emphasized that climate change affects everyone, no matter where they live.
George’s talk, part of the John P. Morris Memorial Lecture series honoring ASU’s first African-American faculty member, delved into the deep connections between environmental degradation and human dignity. She pointed out that marginalized communities, including Indigenous peoples, often bear the brunt of these issues, living in “sacrifice zones” where their health and livelihoods are severely impacted.
“Whether you’re in Angola or Arizona, you are all equal in dignity,” George stated, underscoring the universal nature of these challenges. She urged future lawyers to stay aware of these legal issues and the role they can play in advocating for change.
Recent statistics show that approximately one in six Americans lives within three miles of a hazardous waste site, which disproportionately affects low-income neighborhoods and communities of color. This highlights the urgent need for environmental justice in the U.S. and around the globe.
George also shared her personal journey into human rights advocacy, sparked by the story of Ken Saro-Wiwa, a Nigerian environmental activist executed for challenging the actions of global oil companies. These experiences underscore the importance of applying international laws to private companies to ensure accountability.
Law students like Alex Smith expressed hope after the lecture, noting progress in environmental justice in regions known as the Global South. Smith remarked on the growing recognition of these issues in U.S. law, contrasting it with past apathy.
George’s message was clear: lawyers have the power to drive change. She reminded students that their responsibility goes beyond traditional legal duties—it’s about serving communities and promoting social justice.
As climate change continues to alter our planet, George encourages future lawyers to adapt and actively participate in creating a more equitable world. “Climate is changing,” George said. “We should be too, in our own ways.”
The energy behind her lecture resonated with both students and community members. Jennifer Sanchez, an attendee, reflected on the lecture’s significance in uniting people towards meaningful change in environmental justice.
With voices like George’s leading the way, there is a growing movement among young professionals to weave environmental advocacy into their careers, striving for a hopeful future.
For further reading on environmental justice, you can check out resources from the United Nations Environment Programme which elaborates on the global efforts and guidelines in this crucial area.
