Book SummaryThe Intersectional Environmentalist, by Leah Thomas

1-Page Summary1-Page Book Summary of The Intersectional Environmentalist

Applying Intersectionality to Environmentalism

Intersectional Theory: Overlapping Identities and Unique Experiences of Advantage and Oppression

This section introduces intersectionality, emphasizing that it originates from Black women's experiences. It explains how various aspects of a person's identity can intertwine to create unique experiences of both privilege and oppression.

Intersectional Theory's Pioneer: Kimberlé Crenshaw and Unique Challenges for Black Women

Thomas highlights Kimberlé Crenshaw as the architect behind the theory of intersectionality, a framework born from the struggles of Black women facing both sexism and racism. Crenshaw, a prominent figure in the fields of Black feminism and critical race theory, observed that legal frameworks often failed to protect Black women because they didn't account for the compounding effects of their overlapping identities. Thomas emphasizes that any use of intersectional theory must respect its origins in Black experiences and aim to uplift the very voices it was designed to empower.

One of Crenshaw's landmark examples is the DeGraffenreid v. General Motors lawsuit from 1976. In this case, the court dismissed the claims of women who were of African descent and were disproportionately laid off, even though jobs were retained by men of African descent and white women. The judges argued that since both race and gender were protected categories, Black women could not be considered a distinct protected class. Crenshaw argued that failing to acknowledge this intersection exposed Black women to discrimination based on both race and sex.

Context

• While originating in the United States, intersectionality has been adopted and adapted by scholars and activists worldwide to address local forms of discrimination and inequality.
• The framework has become a critical tool in various academic fields, including sociology, gender studies, and political science, offering a lens through which to analyze power dynamics and social inequalities.
• The theory is intended to empower marginalized voices by highlighting how overlapping identities affect individuals' experiences, particularly in legal and social systems.
• This case underscored the need for legal systems to evolve in recognizing and addressing complex discrimination patterns, influencing future legal interpretations and policies regarding workplace discrimination.
• During the 1970s, the civil rights and feminist movements were gaining momentum, but they often addressed issues of race and gender separately, which left Black women marginalized within both movements.
• The court's decision in the DeGraffenreid case set a...

The Intersectional Environmentalist Summary The History and Tenets of Environmental Justice Activism

Environmental Justice: 1980s Response to Unequal Harm Distribution and Disenfranchisement

This section explores how the environmental justice initiative began in the 1980s. Thomas explains how this movement sought to address the unequal distribution of environmental burdens, which disproportionately impacted communities of color, and challenged the way these communities were shut out of decision-making processes.

Pioneers Johnson and Bullard Documented Environmental Hazards Disproportionately Impacting People of Color

Thomas introduces Hazel M. Johnson and Dr. Robert Bullard as central figures in the environmental justice movement. Johnson, a Black activist from Chicago's South Side, founded People for Community Recovery and tirelessly campaigned against siting toxic waste facilities in Black neighborhoods. She originated the phrase "toxic donut" to describe these communities encircled by ecological dangers. Dr. Bullard, a sociologist recognized as a leading figure in environmental justice, conducted groundbreaking research demonstrating the link between race and the location of toxic waste sites, culminating in his book Dumping in Dixie.

Practical Tips -...

The Intersectional Environmentalist Summary Privilege and Marginalization in Environmental Issues

Privilege: Unearned Identity Advantages Shape Environmental Experiences

This section focuses on the concept of privilege, explaining how unearned advantages based on identity can shape individuals' lived experiences. Thomas underscores that privilege permeates every part of society, including the environment.

Privileged Groups Access Greater Environmental Protections, Marginalized Face More Harms

The author draws a clear connection between privilege and ecological results, noting that individuals and communities with more privilege tend to benefit from stronger environmental protections, while marginalized groups disproportionately experience environmental harms. Thomas uses examples like air pollution disparities and the Flint, Michigan, water emergency to illustrate how privilege influences access to clean air, water, and a safe living environment.

Context

• Privileged areas are more likely to benefit from stringent public health and safety regulations, reducing exposure to environmental hazards like toxic waste or air pollution.
• Marginalized communities are often more vulnerable to the impacts of climate change, such as extreme weather events, due to...

The Intersectional Environmentalist Summary The Disproportionate Environmental Burdens Faced by BIPOC Communities

BIPOC Communities Often Face Environmental Harms, From Pollutants to Disasters

This section delves into specific environmental challenges faced by BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and other people of color) communities, both in the United States and globally.

Black Americans at Greater Risk of Residing in High-Pollution Areas, Resulting in Health Problems

Thomas draws on data to show that Black Americans are likelier to reside in areas with high levels of air and water pollution, leading to a disproportionate burden of respiratory and cardiovascular diseases, including asthma. She cites research highlighting that predominantly Black areas often face a "pollution imbalance," meaning they are subjected to significantly higher pollution levels than they generate.

Practical Tips

• You can support local businesses in high-pollution areas by purchasing their products or services. By doing so, you're investing in the economic health of these communities, which can lead to improved infrastructure and potentially less pollution. For example, if you're buying coffee, choose a local roaster from a high-pollution area instead of a national chain.
• You can reduce exposure to...

The Intersectional Environmentalist Summary A Diverse View of Environmental Issues and Solutions

Fashion Needs Intersectional Lens: Fast Fashion Harms Environment and Female Workers in the Developing World

This section explores the ecological and societal implications of the fashion industry, focusing on its rapid production model, using an intersectional perspective.

An Industry Focused on Profit Over Sustainability Causes Human Rights Abuses, Unsafe Working Conditions, and Harm to the Environment

The author criticizes the industry of fast fashion for prioritizing profit over the well-being of employees and the planet. Thomas notes how this industry relies heavily on cheap labor, often exploiting women in southern regions of the world and tolerating hazardous workplaces. She also details the environmental impact of fast fashion, from excessive water consumption to textile waste and emissions of greenhouse gases.

Other Perspectives

• Profitability is essential for any industry's survival, and without it, there would be no resources to invest in sustainability initiatives.
• The presence of international brands can lead to technology transfer and skill development for local workers, which might not occur otherwise.
• Technological advancements and...