The Role of Environmental Racism in Federal Handling of Toxic Waste Sites Near Communities of Color: How Are Journalists Covering These Issues? Case Study: Northeast Carbondale, Illinois

Authors

Clarissa CowleyFollow

Degree Name

Master of Science

Graduate Program

Mass Communication and Media Arts

Advisor

William Freivogel, J.D.

Abstract

Toxic waste sites in the United States of America disproportionately impact low-income communities of color amid an reckoning in news reporting on environment and race. These communities have historically received questionable attention, treatment and communication from government agencies and offices, and journalists concerning hazardous pollution near their homes. This creative multimedia work uses in-depth investigative reporting presented on a digital platform to amplify the voices prominent in Northeast Carbondale, Il. The article series featured in the work explores examples of environmental pollution, contamination and racial injustice. These stories explain how and why cases such as this can happen over extended periods of time without being fully heard. Does racial discrimination play a role in the USEPA's handling of toxic waste sites? Are other journalists covering these issues?