Why Community Involvement Matters: A Crucial Moment for Newark

As we approach the Passaic Valley Sewerage Commission’s board meeting on September 19th at noon, the urgency of community involvement, education, and civic action has never been clearer. The agenda for this meeting could include a critical vote on the approval of the 4th dirty methane gas and hydrogen plant in Newark -a major city already overburdened by environmental challenges. We at Waterspirit are working closely with residents overburdened by climate injustice. We are urging people to send this spiritually inspired letter to board members, local officials, and Governor Murphy’s office to express your concerns and advocate for alternative solutions.

This proposed plant would be rendered useless in the aftermath of flooding, which was the impetus for the back-up power intended project, after Sandy. This decision not only affects Newark but also reflects on broader environmental justice issues, including the legacy of Governor Phil Murphy, who has approved this project.

Community involvement matters. It may seem easy to think that local issues will not concern us unless we live in the immediate area, but environmental and social justice transcend geographical boundaries. Sacred water and air know no bounds. Newark’s struggle is a microcosm of a larger struggle for equitable and sustainable practices and related investments that impact everyone. When we support our neighbors in Newark, we strengthen our collective voice and promote a more inclusive approach to decision-making.

Understanding the implications of the proposed plant is crucial. Methane and hydrogen plants, especially when sited in already overburdened communities, pose significant, unnecessary risks. They contribute to air and water pollution and can exacerbate health problems for residents.

May awareness of these issues empower us to advocate effectively for a just and equitable future. When we are informed, we can better hold our public officials accountable toward policies that prioritize human and environmental health over short term corporate interests.

The upcoming board meeting is a pivotal moment for residents and allies to voice concerns. Public officials in Newark are already vocal in their resounding opposition to the plant, demonstrating a unified position against what they see as a threat to environmental justice. Yet, their voices alone may not be enough.

As we amplify these voices, we help ensure that decisions are made with the full consideration of their broader impacts, and we send a clear message that environmental justice cannot be sacrificed for short-term gains.

A CALL TO ACTION

Now is the time to come together. Whether you’re a Newark resident or someone from a neighboring community, or someone living in New Jersey anywhere, your involvement is crucial.

·         Show your support by attending the September 19th meeting. Your presence reinforces the demand for environmental justice.

·         Use social media and local networks to raise awareness about the issue. The more people know, the more powerful our collective impact becomes.

·         Send this letter to board members, local officials, and call Governor Murphy’s office to express your concerns and advocate for alternative solutions.

A vote on September 19th would amount to more than a local decision—it’s a critical test of our commitment to environmental justice and community solidarity. Together, we can shift the conversation towards solutions that benefit all communities. May we leave a legacy to future generations of justice, responsibility, and compassion for our neighbors, regardless of where they live. Join us!