Latest news with #CarlStewart
Yahoo
03-05-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Court delivers major victory in case challenging harmful government practice: 'Now we can finally get back to the urgent work'
A 2023 lawsuit against a South Louisiana parish regarding pollution is back in court, according to Reuters. The lawsuit alleges that predominantly Black neighborhoods in St. James Parish had been inordinately subjected to petrochemical emissions. A study from a grade school in neighboring St. John the Baptist Parish suggested students were being subjected to the "highest theoretical cancer risk in the nation." The risk earned a stretch of land in St. James Parish the nickname of Cancer Alley. The case was originally dismissed because the statute of limitations had been exceeded, as the zoning permissions were given to industry in 2014. The appeal to bring the case back succeeded on grounds that those permissions were part of a larger pattern of violating 13th and 14th Amendment rights. Part of the lawsuit's argument is that polluting industries were given license to operate in majority-Black communities, while nearby white communities were granted a moratorium on commercial solar installations. "While it is unclear at this pleading stage whether these alleged incidents of discrimination can ultimately prove a violation of the Organizations' constitutional or statutory rights, as alleged they plainly fall within the applicable one-year limitations period," 5th U.S. Circuit Court Judge Carl Stewart wrote, per Reuters. Minority communities have historically borne the brunt of pollution. This is in part because of redlining, which kept underrepresented groups close to industrial zones. A newer trend, bluelining, increases insurance premiums in areas deemed environmentally risky, often in the same Black communities. This demonstrates how oil and gas pollution does more than just exacerbate extreme weather patterns. The effects have an immediate and harmful impact on those living nearby. "Now we can finally get back to the urgent work of addressing the public health emergency caused by the parish's constant and easy approval of every request by any petrochemical company seeking to operate in these majority-Black communities," plaintiffs lawyer Pam Spees said, per Reuters. Do you worry about air pollution in and around your home? Yes — always Yes — often Yes — sometimes No — never Click your choice to see results and speak your mind. Join our free newsletter for good news and useful tips, and don't miss this cool list of easy ways to help yourself while helping the planet.
Yahoo
30-01-2025
- General
- Yahoo
Booker T. Washington to host Black History Month celebration honoring military
SHREVEPORT, La. (KTAL/KMSS) — Booker T. Washington New Technology High School has announced the Black History Month events honoring local activists and student artistry. According to a press release, the Lions Battalion JROTC program is hosting A Black History Month Celebration honoring the contributions of Black Americans to the military and their role in building our nation. Officials say the purpose is to educate, inspire, and celebrate the legacy of Black Americans in the military while fostering a sense of community and pride. This event is an opportunity to honor the past, learn from the present, and build bridges for the future. The event will include: Keynote address by Judge Carl Stewart and a panel discussion with military and community leaders. Fellowship and brunch will be provided for all registered attendees. This event takes place Saturday, February 8, 2025 from 10:00 a.m. until 12p.m. in the Booker T. Washington High School Auditorium. Attendees should RSVP by February 1, 2025 by emailing lswilliams@ or calling the school at (318) 222-2186. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
