SCPA FIRST THURSDAY EVENT: ENVIRONMENTAL INJUSTICE
Zoom Weblink:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84175950107
OR call in on your phone, enter the phone number, and then follow the prompts to enter the meeting ID
Meeting ID: 841 7595 0107
Phone: +1 929 205 6099
Watch on YOUTUBE after the event:
https://www.youtube.com/@SCPABrevard84175950107
Embark on a crucial panel discussion dissecting the intricate dynamics of environmental racism and climate racism prevalent in Brevard County. Disproportionately affecting communities of color, these injustices manifest through recurrent flooding and pervasive corporate pollution, leading to adverse health effects. Camille Hadley, Executive Director of Little Growers, Inc., and an expert in the field, highlights the interconnection between the health of species in the Indian River Lagoon and the well-being of adjacent communities of color. As she asserts, when the lagoon’s species fall ill, so do the people living nearby. It’s a call to prioritize the health of both ecosystems and communities within our watershed. Yvonne Minus, a Melbourne City Councilwoman, will be speaking about the Bright Line High Speed train and how it affects already at risk communities.
Delving into the definitions of environmental justice and injustice, as outlined by Google, we emphasize the critical need for the treatment and meaningful involvement of all people, regardless of race, color, national origin, or income, in environmental decision-making processes. The discussion sheds light on stark realities, including statistics such as non-white communities facing disproportionate exposure to particulate matter, contaminated waste sites, and high-flood areas. An estimated 70% of contaminated waste sites are located in primarily low-income communities, and upwards of 2 million people live within a mile of high-flood areas, the majority being black and brown individuals.
Local examples, such as the burning of sugar cane in the Glades, expose the harsh impacts on predominantly poor, Black communities. Every October, residents are confronted with ‘black snow,’ a thick layer of soot falling on predominantly black communities, highlighting the hidden nature of these injustices.
Join us for a riveting discussion with Camille Hadley and Yvonne Minus, in which they will share more examples of environmental justice in our community and state, and provide insight into how we can actively contribute to addressing these pressing issues.
CAMILLE HADLEY, ENVIRONMENTAL AND CLIMATE LEADER
Camille T. Hadley, a dedicated professional originally from Compton, CA, has a robust background in community advocacy and environmental justice. As the first student representative to the Compton College Reaccreditation board, she restored accreditation and founded the Not-For-Profit Organization Tartar Marketplace to combat community food insecurity. Camille’s commitment earned her the Martin Luther King Jr. Award and recognition as the most improved faith-based organizer. With a Bachelor’s in Business Management, specializing in Marketing, from California State University Dominguez Hills, Camille now holds esteemed roles, including Wisdom Keeper for Women’s Earth Alliance, lead consultant for Climate Business Institute initiatives, and Environmental Justice Committee Chair and Youth and College Committee Chair for the South Brevard NAACP.
She was also nominated in the top 12 for the Leadership Brevard 4 under 40 award in 2024, Camille co-founded Little Growers Inc. in Brevard County, FL, and is a vital member of the Leadership Council for Anthropocene Alliance since 2019.Camille was one of 22 women in the United States, including Guam, to win the first US accelerator award for the Women’s Earth Alliance and Sierra Club. Her accomplishments extend to lead panels at prominent conferences, including the 2023 Florida and National Brownfields Training Conferences. As a lead consultant, she has spearheaded impactful environmental justice and green infrastructure projects for BIPOC communities in West Cocoa and Spring Hill, Florida and South Melbourne, showcasing her expertise in community organizing.
YVONNE MINUS, MELBOURNE CITY COUNCILWOMAN
Vice Mayor Yvonne Minus and husband James have been married for 19 years. They have 2 children (1 deceased daughter, Yolanda), 7 grandchildren, and one beautiful great-granddaughter. Vice Mayor Minus is a 42-year resident of Melbourne who worked at a major company in south Brevard County for more than 27 years. She was born in Atlanta, Georgia. She graduated from Riverview High School, Vocational School and Marsh Draughon College.
Vice Mayor Minus was elected as first black female to Melbourne City Council in 2016 and was appointed to serve as Vice Mayor in 2023. She also served as Vice Mayor November 2017 – November 2018. She was initially appointed to the City Council in January 2014 after the death of Council Member Harry Goode. She served from January 2014 until the November 2016 election.