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Environmental Justice-Opposing a Toxic Waste Landfill

Middle, Secondary

Description

In this video featuring segments from the 1980's film Earthkeeping: Toxic Racism, the origin of the environmental racism movement is explained.  The history of the term along with the initial actions that brought the issue to light, are presented in a compelling and easy to understand format.

Accompanying the video there is background reading along with resources to help further develop the students’ understanding of the issues. In the teaching tips section there are suggestions for before, during and after viewing activities designed to deepen the discussion.

General Assessment

Recommendation of how and where to use it

The resource provides a comprehensive introduction to the concepts of environmental racism and environmental justice.The content is well suited to the middle school classroom in a variety of subject areas including, but not limited to Science, Social Studies, Geography and Health. 

Relevant Curriculum Units

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  • Alberta
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    • Grade 6
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        • Living Systems: Understandings of the living world, Earth, and space are deepened through investigating natural systems and their interactions
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        • Democracy: Action and Participation: Citizens Participatiing in Decision Making
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        • Environment and Outdoor Education: Environmental Core
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        • Global Issues and Governance: Complex global problems require international cooperation to make difficult choices for the future.
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        • Canadian Identities: Civics
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        • Health: Environmental Health
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        • Science 7: Environmental Action
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        • Global Issues and Governance: Complex global problems require international cooperation to make difficult choices for the future.
        • Global Issues and Governance: Economic self-interest can be a significant cause of conflict among peoples and governments.
        • Global Issues and Governance: Systems of government vary in their respect for human rights and freedoms.

Themes Addressed

Economics (1)

  • Corporate Social Responsibility

Human Health & Environment (2)

  • Environmental Contaminants & Health Hazards
  • Quality of Life

Human Rights (3)

  • Environmental Racism/Justice
  • Poverty
  • Social Justice

Land Use & Natural Resources (1)

  • Sustainable Urbanization

Waste Management (1)

  • Hazardous Waste

Water (1)

  • Watershed Protection