NAACP Leader Selected as Member of First-ever EPA HBCU Federal Advisory Council

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

September 19, 2024

Contact: Chyna Fields, [email protected]

WASHINGTON - This week, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced the members of the inaugural Historically Black Colleges and Universities and Minority Serving Institutions (HBCU-MSI) Federal Advisory Council. NAACP Director for the Center of Environmental and Climate Justice (ECJ), Abre' Conner, was selected to serve as a council member for a two-year term where she will help to foster diversity, equity, and inclusion within environmental policymaking and workforce development.

"Advocating for environmental and climate justice across this nation is imperative for the future of Black health and communities," said Abre' Conner, NAACP Director of ECJ. "Our HBCUs and MSIs deserve access to industry-leading resources to thrive in today's society. I am honored to have been selected as an advisor on this council, where I can help amplify the perspectives of my community, support minority institutions as cornerstones of our society, and contribute to shaping the future of environmental advocacy."

The HBCU-MSI Federal Advisory Council will provide advice and recommendations to EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan on strategies to help diversify the agency's workforce, support the professional development of environmental leaders, and ensure that HBCUs and MSIs receive the resources and support they need to thrive.

The NAACP remains committed to addressing environmental and climate injustices that continue to negatively impact Black Americans and will continue prioritizing Black voices to shape a future that uplifts equity, justice, and sustainability for all.

For more information on our environmental and climate justice work, visit our website.

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About NAACP

The NAACP advocates, agitates, and litigates for the civil rights due to Black America. Our legacy is built on the foundation of grassroots activism by the biggest civil rights pioneers of the 20th century and is sustained by 21st century activists. From classrooms and courtrooms to city halls and Congress, our network of members across the country works to secure the social and political power that will end race-based discrimination. That work is rooted in racial equity, civic engagement, and supportive policies and institutions for all marginalized people. We are committed to a world without racism where Black people enjoy equitable opportunities in thriving communities.

NOTE: The Legal Defense Fund - also referred to as the NAACP-LDF - was founded in 1940 as a part of the NAACP, but now operates as a completely separate entity.