Presenter(s): Megan Johnson Guthrie − Environmental Geoscience
Faculty Mentor(s): Sarah Wald
Poster 164
Research Area: Environmental Studies
By disregarding our states past, we contribute to the continued mistreatment and injustices that built the foundation of our government, specifically in relation to environment. Systemic white oppression building the foundation of Oregon’s governmental legislations led to a prevalent history of environmental injustices leading up today. In order to shed light on environmental justice and injustices in Oregon, my project involves researching and materializing an environmental justice and injustice timeline specific to Oregon for the organization, Bark. Beginning with what began with Indigenous peoples building communities and forming traditions on the land. To major historical dates, people, and communities contributing
to environmental justice or injustice. To today where governmental policies systemic oppressive, inequitable, and unjust regulations prevent equity and inclusion in environmental use. The environmental justice movement only began to bubble up in US 1980’s so this timeline will include dates, people, and communities that lead to the need of the environmental justice movement. Then after the 1980’s the timeline will focus ore on movements that have improved inclusion and equity in the environment but also including the injustices that continue today. Understanding Oregon’s environmental history can help us and Bark gain insight and understanding on the importance of improving inclusion and equity within our environment. Also, how to contribute change in current and future oppressive, environmental regulations.