Legendary Women of Environmental Justice in Metro Detroit: A Report from a Historic Community Event Hosted on July 8, 2023

The sidewalks were lined with images of women of color who came before us—many still at work today. We met on July 8, 2023, at the Kemeny Recreation Center in Southwest Detroit, the heart of a community affected by environmental (in)justices for decades. Greeted by youth and elder community leaders, we were welcomed with grace and a buzz of optimism and brilliance. When everyone was glad the person next to them came, we knew we were in the right place. When every chair was full and the walls were lined with leaning bodies, of all shapes, colors, and ages, we knew we were in the right place. Together we engaged in the selfie station, art through a therapeutic lens, healthy cooking sessions, and an obstacle course. During a panel discussion, moderated by Laprisha Berry Daniels, six panelists, Rhonda Anderson, Theresa Landrum, Sylvia Orduno, Faizah Nasser, Maria Salinas, and Maureen Taylor, shared their experiences, and we left knowing that pollution has no boundaries. We were reminded that organizing is not only about dreaming; it is about mobilizing. We were given clear instructions to mobilize across generations and to rest, as the struggle is long. This day devoted to environmental justice work should not soon be forgotten.