EJ Training Resource Research Compendium
Exhaustive Web Research for OEJE Staff Training Modules (M1-M5)
Compiled: Thursday, May 8, 2026 | For: JJRconsulting / OEJE EJ Staff Training Project
What this resource is and how to use it
This compendium catalogs 75+ training resources organized across six categories: curricula and courses, toolkits and guides, public health intersections, community engagement and CBO partnerships, academic and professional development, and emerging approaches. Each resource is mapped to the OEJE training modules (M1-M5) it can inform.
💬Know of a training program, toolkit or learning resource that should be included? We welcome your input. Email us directly at ej-train-input@jjrconsulting.com. No forms, no gatekeeping.
A living resource, not a definitive source. EJ training practice is evolving rapidly. This collection highlights programs and resources most relevant to OEJE staff training but is not comprehensive. Every entry includes live source links. This resource will be continually updated.
JEDICAB
JEDI-CAB Quality Framework
See how Justice, Equity, Dignity, Inclusion, Culture, Accessibility and Belonging shaped this resource
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Explore the full EJ training resource collection
EJ Glossary of Terms80+ terms with definitions, context and MA-specific guidance EJ Scholar Deep Profiles14 scholars shaping EJ policy, science and practice Founding Generation EJ Scholars8 pioneering scholars who built the field State EJ Landscape Research16 states with EJ programs, policies and models National EJ LandscapeFederal agencies, national organizations and resources Cutting-Edge EJ ResearchEmerging research, tools and innovative approaches EJ Training Curricula and ModelsTraining programs, toolkits and learning resources JEDI-CAB Quality FrameworkHow the framework shaped these resources1. EJ Training Curricula & Courses 17 resources All Modules
EPA EJ Academy (Region 5 Pilot)
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Region 5 (Illinois)
Nine-module training program combining virtual Wednesday evening sessions and in-person Saturday workshops over ~10 months. Participants cultivate skills to address environmental challenges and carry out environmental improvement goals. Graduation requires attending 8 of 9 modules, completing a portfolio, and all homework.
Why it matters: The only known EPA-run multi-module EJ academy with a structured curriculum -- directly models what the OEJE training is building. Module structure, portfolio requirement, and blended format are all adaptable.
EPA EJ Academy Evaluation Study (Sustainability Journal)
MDPI Sustainability, Vol. 15, Issue 20 (2023)
Peer-reviewed evaluation of the EPA EJ Academy's use of the Collaborative Problem-Solving Model. Documents participant outcomes, skills acquired, and community impacts. Provides evidence base for CPS-model training effectiveness.
Why it matters: Provides empirical evidence on what works in EJ training design -- can inform evaluation framework for OEJE modules.
EPA State EJ Training Webinar Series
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Ongoing webinar series building long-term capacity of state-level EJ practitioners. Topics include: information systems for EJ, incorporating equity in disaster mitigation, enhancing community involvement in regulatory processes, and state environmental impact assessment. Recordings and slides available on EPA YouTube channel.
Why it matters: Directly targets state government staff -- the exact audience for OEJE training. Topic list maps to M1 (policy/regulatory) and M4 (community involvement). Recordings can serve as supplementary materials.
National Environmental Justice Conference & Training Program (NEJC)
NEJC (Annual Conference)
Annual 3-day national conference featuring interactive training sessions on EJ topics including Title VI, health disparities, NEPA reviews, climate justice, and chemical facility safety. 2025 theme: "Mobilizing and Strengthening Environmental Justice Resilience for the Future" (note: 2025 event was canceled due to federal executive orders).
Why it matters: Session topics and abstracts from prior years provide a menu of training content areas. Past presentations are a rich source of case studies and subject matter expertise.
DOI Environmental Justice Training Resources Page
U.S. Department of the Interior, Office of Environmental Policy and Compliance
Curated list of online EJ training resources for federal employees, EJ professionals, advocates, and the public. Includes EJ virtual workshop series, technical assistance webinars, links to EJScreen and EnviroAtlas training, and grant-related resources. List is continuously updated.
Why it matters: One-stop inventory of federal EJ training resources. Excellent model for how to organize and present supplementary resources for OEJE module participants.
NIH Environmental Justice Training Program
National Institutes of Health / NIEHS
NIH-wide EJ training program encompassing the full spectrum of NIH training activities addressing Executive Order 14096. Trains healthcare professionals, public health practitioners, and policymakers on EJ connections to health and well-being. Builds capacity to address environmental threats via tailored trainings on environmental health, justice, disparities, social determinants, and evidence-based research design.
Why it matters: Directly relevant to M2 (EJ and Public Health). Training approach for health professionals is transferable to state agency staff working on environmental health.
NIEHS Environmental Career Worker Training Program (ECWTP)
National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences
Comprehensive training for disadvantaged workers in environmental restoration, construction, hazardous materials handling, and emergency response. Part of Justice40 Initiative. Includes National Clearinghouse for Worker Safety and Health Training with curricula, safety protocols, and technical reports.
Why it matters: Model for how EJ training can be workforce-oriented and equity-centered. Worker training methodologies are documented and adaptable.
Environmental Law Institute (ELI) Community Education & Training Program
Environmental Law Institute
Long-running program providing citizens and grassroots groups with information on environmental law and policy. Includes "Demystifying the Law" workshops, right-to-know law training, and public participation tools. ELI's CEHJ program builds capacity of community organizations to protect health and environment.
Why it matters: ELI's approach to making environmental law accessible is directly relevant to M1. Their community education model shows how to translate complex policy into actionable training.
WE ACT Environmental Health & Justice Leadership Training (EHJLT)
WE ACT for Environmental Justice
Award-winning training introducing members to environmental justice, environmental health, community organizing, and campaign work. Graduates are equipped with knowledge and tools to organize campaigns. WE ACT also serves as an EPA Region 2 Technical Assistance Center providing training on grant applications, proposal writing, community engagement, and meeting facilitation.
Why it matters: Gold-standard CBO-led training model. Demonstrates what CBOs bring to the table (M3) and how community members are trained in EJ -- helps state staff understand the CBO perspective.
Coursera: Environmental Justice (University of Michigan)
University of Michigan / Coursera
Free online course featuring interviews with Paul Mohai (founding father of the EJ movement) and content on Bunyan Bryant. Covers history, quantitative research on disproportionate environmental burdens, and the Michigan Conference on Race and the Incidence of Environmental Hazards (1990).
Why it matters: Free, auditable course with foundational EJ content. Interview segments with movement founders could be used as supplementary video content for M1.
Coursera: Human Health Risks, Health Equity, and Environmental Justice
University of Michigan / Coursera
Free online course connecting human health risks to health equity and environmental justice. Examines how environmental exposures create health disparities across communities.
Why it matters: Directly maps to M2 content. Free to audit -- could be recommended as pre-work or supplementary learning for module participants.
Coursera: Energy Justice (Dartmouth College)
Dartmouth College / Coursera
Self-paced online course led by Dr. Amanda Graham with guest speakers from Dartmouth, Rice University, and Arizona State University. Explores equitable energy futures.
Why it matters: Energy justice is a major EJ sub-topic relevant to Massachusetts agencies (DOER). Provides specialized content for M1 and M5.
FutureLearn: Environmental Justice (Online Course)
FutureLearn
Online environmental justice course available through FutureLearn platform, covering core EJ concepts and applications.
Why it matters: Additional online learning option for OEJE staff seeking supplementary self-paced education.
Environmental Justice Book Syllabi Repository
EnvironmentalJusticeBook.org
Collection of university EJ course syllabi including offerings from UNM, Columbia, and others. Provides structured examples of how EJ content is organized for semester-length courses.
Why it matters: Syllabi reveal how academics sequence EJ content, what readings they assign, and which topics get priority -- invaluable for module content design.
Columbia University: Environmental & Climate Justice Courses
Environmental and Climate Justice at Columbia (ECJaC) Project
Platform connecting students, faculty, and community to EJ/CJ initiatives. Includes courses like "Environmental Justice and Climate Resiliency" (race, equity, environment intersections) and "Building Climate Justice: Co-Creative Coastal Resilience Planning" (community-engaged pedagogy). MA in Climate and Society includes justice frameworks in core curriculum.
Why it matters: Cutting-edge course designs from a top institution. The co-creative resilience planning course is a model for M4/M5 capstone design.
Groundwork USA: Learners to Leaders EJ Literacy Curriculum
Groundwork USA
Digital EJ literacy curriculum for grades 6-12 (adaptable). Includes lesson plans, projects, materials, discussion questions. Required texts include NRDC's "Environmental Justice Movement," EO 12898, and the 17 Principles of EJ. Field-tested with youth instructors.
Why it matters: While youth-focused, the curriculum structure and required readings list are directly useful for adult training design. The progression from literacy to leadership mirrors the OEJE module arc.
EcoRise: Introduction to Environmental Justice Lessons
EcoRise (in collaboration with Groundwork USA)
Multi-session lessons for elementary through high school covering EJ heroes, systemic racism, and community action. Lessons explore kindness, compassion, and empathy in repairing damage from racist systems. Available free to educators, implemented in all 50 states. Includes 13-poster series on EJ Heroes (English/Spanish).
Why it matters: The "EJ Heroes" approach and poster series could inspire vignette development for OEJE modules. Community action focus aligns with M4.
2. EJ Toolkits & Guides 16 resources All Modules
GARE Racial Equity Toolkit
Government Alliance on Race and Equity (GARE) / Race Forward
Tool for integrating explicit consideration of racial equity into government decisions -- policies, practices, programs, and budgets. Used by 400+ local, state, and regional government members. Includes step-by-step process for analyzing how decisions impact different racial groups. Has been adapted for water utilities, environmental work, and federal agencies.
Why it matters: Foundational equity tool for government decision-making. Directly applicable to M5 (Building Equitable Programs) and sets the equity analysis framework that underpins all modules. M5 M1
GARE: Advancing Racial Equity -- A Framework for Federal Agencies
Race Forward / GARE
Resource guide specifically for federal agencies organizing for racial equity. Addresses how to embed equity considerations within agency structures, policies, and programs.
Why it matters: Federal agency framework is directly transferable to state agency context. Provides institutional change model for M5. M5
EPA Environmental Justice Collaborative Problem-Solving (CPS) Model
U.S. EPA, Office of Environmental Justice
Seven-element model providing a systematic approach for communities to build partnerships with stakeholders to improve environmental and public health conditions. Intended for CBOs, government agencies, tribes, industry, NGOs, and academia. Includes case studies from CPS Cooperative Agreement Program grantees.
Why it matters: Core framework for how communities and agencies work together on EJ. Directly relevant to M3 (CBO value), M4 (engagement), and M5 (program design). Case studies are ready-made vignettes. M3 M4
EPA CPS Case Studies
U.S. EPA
Compilation of case studies from organizations that used the EPA's Collaborative Problem-Solving Model. Documents real community-agency partnerships, approaches, and outcomes.
Why it matters: Ready-made vignettes showing CBO-government partnerships in action. Direct source for M3 and M4 scenario-based exercises. M3 M4
EPA Capacity Building Through Effective Meaningful Engagement
U.S. EPA
Booklet designed to help local and state government officials create or expand plans for engaging meaningfully with communities most affected by their actions. Practical guidance on moving beyond compliance to genuine partnership.
Why it matters: Written specifically for government officials -- exact audience of OEJE training. Core content for M4. M4
MWCOG Environmental Justice Toolkit 2.0
Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments
Updated toolkit for local governments to engage vulnerable communities on climate, energy, and EJ. Covers air quality, heat islands, flooding, energy access/affordability, EV charging, solar, and heat pumps. Emphasizes community leaders and residents as partners in generating EJ solutions.
Why it matters: Regional government toolkit with practical engagement recommendations. Model for how to structure a toolkit that accompanies training modules. M4 M5
EPA Technical Guidance for Assessing EJ in Regulatory Analysis (2024 Update)
U.S. EPA
Updated technical guidance on incorporating EJ concerns into regulatory analysis. Includes methodologies and tools for human health risk assessment with EJ considerations. December 2024 version.
Why it matters: Technical reference for M1 (policy/legal framework). Shows how EJ is operationalized in regulatory decision-making. M1
EPA Interim Cumulative Impacts Framework (November 2024)
U.S. EPA
"Place Matters" interim framework for advancing consideration of cumulative impacts in EJ communities. Addresses how multiple environmental, health, and social stressors compound in affected communities.
Why it matters: Cumulative impacts is a core EJ concept (especially for MA's new cumulative impact analysis requirements). Essential content for M1 and M2. M1 M2
NEJAC Recommendations on Cumulative and Disproportionate Impacts (2024)
National Environmental Justice Advisory Council (NEJAC)
Advisory recommendations for reducing cumulative and disproportionate impacts and burdens in environmental justice communities. November 2024 publication.
Why it matters: NEJAC represents the EJ community voice advising EPA. Recommendations reflect community priorities that state agencies should understand. M1
EJScreen: EPA's Environmental Justice Screening Tool
U.S. EPA
Web-based mapping tool combining environmental and demographic indicators for screening potential EJ concerns. Includes user guide PDF, tutorial videos, and "EJScreen in 5" quick overview video. Tool provides nationally consistent data for comparison.
Why it matters: Essential screening tool that MA state staff should know how to use. Tutorial materials can be integrated into M1 as hands-on exercise. M1
CalEnviroScreen (California)
California Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment (OEHHA)
California's EJ screening tool identifying communities disproportionately burdened by pollution. OEHHA hosted joint virtual trainings with EPA on CalEnviroScreen and EJScreen for community members and nonprofits. Model for state-level EJ screening approaches.
Why it matters: Represents the gold standard in state-level EJ screening. Useful comparison point for MA's own EJ mapping tools in M1. M1
Race Forward: Racial Equity Impact Assessment Toolkit
Race Forward
Formal process framework for analyzing how budgetary or policy decisions impact different racial and ethnic groups. Modeled after environmental impact statements. Used by cities including Seattle (since 2012) and adapted for multiple government contexts.
Why it matters: Equity assessment methodology applicable to all MA agencies. Core tool for M5 capstone. M5
WRI Community Action Toolkit
World Resources Institute
Roadmap for using environmental rights to fight pollution. Designed for community organizations seeking to hold government and industry accountable for environmental harms.
Why it matters: Shows the community perspective on accountability -- helps state staff understand what communities expect. M3
EJ State-by-State Database
EJ State by State (ejstatebystate.org)
Comprehensive database of state-level environmental justice laws, policies, executive orders, and programs. Searchable by state, policy type, and topic area. Includes Massachusetts-specific entries.
Why it matters: Essential reference for M1 -- shows how MA's EJ framework compares to other states. Helps staff understand the national EJ policy landscape. M1
ECOS: Environmental Justice and Title VI Resources
Environmental Council of the States
Resources and information for state environmental agencies on environmental justice and Title VI compliance. Addresses how states are integrating EJ into their regulatory programs.
Why it matters: State agency-focused resource on Title VI (critical legal framework in M1). Shows peer state approaches. M1
Vermont Equity Impact Assessment Tool
State of Vermont
State-developed equity impact assessment tool providing a structured framework for state agencies to evaluate the equity implications of their decisions and programs.
Why it matters: Peer New England state example of equity assessment at the agency level. Directly applicable to M5 exercises. M5
3. EJ & Public Health Resources 10 resources Module 2
APHA: Environmental Justice Topic Page & Policy Statements
American Public Health Association
APHA's comprehensive EJ resource hub covering environmental health, environmental justice, lead contamination, water equity, and climate change. Includes policy statement "Addressing Environmental Justice to Achieve Health Equity" (2020) defining how EJ intersects with public health practice.
Why it matters: APHA is the leading public health professional association. Their EJ-health connection framing is authoritative for M2. Policy statements provide citable definitions. M2
APHA Issue Brief: Achieving Environmental Health Equity
American Public Health Association
Issue brief outlining the need and opportunities for public health approaches to achieve environmental health equity. Identifies key action areas including expanded health professions curricula.
Why it matters: Provides the "why" for integrating EJ into health practice -- directly supports M2 learning objectives. M2
HRSA: Introduction to Environmental Justice & Health Equity
Health Resources and Services Administration (HHS)
Fact sheet defining EJ-health equity connections with HHS/HRSA case studies. Provides comprehensive resource list on intersections of EJ, climate change, and health equity. Designed for HRSA award recipients but broadly applicable.
Why it matters: Federal health agency's own framing of EJ-health connections. Case studies are ready-made for M2 exercises. M2
North Dakota: Health Equity and Environmental Justice 101
North Dakota Health and Human Services
Training module increasing awareness and knowledge of basic principles of health equity and EJ. Designed for state agency staff. By completion, participants understand how health equity and EJ relate and can be applied to their work.
Why it matters: Direct peer model -- another state's "101" training on EJ and health equity for state employees. Structure and learning objectives are transferable. M2
CDPH: Engaging Communities for Health Equity and Environmental Justice Guide
California Department of Public Health (CDPH)
Three-domain guide: (1) community engagement goals for gathering information and meaningful engagement; (2) responsible public health investigations including study design and findings communication; (3) accessible communications including non-English language accessibility, low-literacy writing, and disability accessibility. Includes companion toolkit with templates and field-testing guides.
Why it matters: Exceptional model combining health equity, EJ, and community engagement in one guide. Three-domain structure is adaptable for M2 and M4 content. M2 M4
Children's Environmental Health Network (CEHN): EJ and Health Equity
Children's Environmental Health Network
Resources on the intersection of environmental justice and health equity, with particular focus on children's environmental health disparities.
Why it matters: Children's health is a powerful entry point for M2 content -- makes EJ-health connections tangible and urgent. M2
UC Davis: Building Equitable Partnerships for Environmental Justice Curriculum
UC Davis Environmental Health Sciences Center / NIEHS
Two-day workshop curriculum for researchers and community groups. Covers essential tenets of community participatory research, building equitable partnerships, understanding power dynamics, and leveraging university resources. Identified 10 content areas within 5 categories. Includes Appendix B: Review of Existing EJ and Health Equity Curricula.
Why it matters: The curricula review appendix is a meta-resource -- surveys what other EJ/health equity training programs exist. The partnership focus maps to M3/M4. M2 M3
NNLM: Environmental Health and Justice Guide
Network of the National Library of Medicine
Comprehensive guide on environmental health and justice covering definitions, data sources, community resources, and health impacts of environmental exposures.
Why it matters: Health-focused reference guide that grounds EJ in evidence-based health data. Useful for M2 content development. M2
Health Impact Assessment (HIA) Toolkit
Canadian Public Health Association / CDC / Minnesota DOH
Comprehensive HIA handbook covering decision-support methodology for assessing how proposed decisions may impact community health and well-being. CDC resources include specialized toolkits for Parks/Trails, Transportation, and focused areas (Injury, Mental Health, Physical Activity, Respiratory Health, Water Quality).
Why it matters: HIA is a practical tool state agencies can use to assess EJ-health impacts of their decisions. Directly applicable to M2 and M5 exercises. M2 M5
Region V Public Health Training Center: EJ Advocacy and Health Equity Courses
Region V Public Health Training Center (University of Michigan)
On-demand webinar courses including "Environmental Justice: Advocating for Equity" and "Introduction to Health Equity and Racial Justice." Features panel discussions with EJ advocates on connections between environmental health and racial disparities, cross-disciplinary collaboration, and how public health professionals can advocate for health equity.
Why it matters: Free, on-demand training designed for public health professionals. Content and format directly inform M2 design. M2
4. Community Engagement Resources 12 resources M3 M4
IAP2 Spectrum of Public Participation
International Association for Public Participation (IAP2)
Five-level framework: Inform, Consult, Involve, Collaborate, Empower. Designed to assist with selecting the level of participation that defines the public's role. Includes seven core principles for public engagement developed with the National Coalition for Dialogue and Co-Intelligence Institute. Widely applied to analyze EJ initiatives including state cumulative impact legislation.
Why it matters: THE foundational participation framework. Essential content for M4 -- helps state staff assess where their current engagement falls on the spectrum and where it should be. M4
Spectrum of Community Engagement to Ownership
Rosa Gonzalez / Facilitating Power / Movement Strategy Center
Six-level framework extending beyond IAP2: from "Ignore" (marginalized/disempowered) to "Defer To" (community ownership and democratic control). Developed in 2019. Serves as relationship/power mapping tool for nonprofits, community groups, and public agencies. Makes visible where power lies and what shifts are needed to distribute power to communities. Draws on Arnstein's Ladder and IAP2 Spectrum.
Why it matters: THE updated engagement framework that centers power and ownership. Essential for M4 -- directly addresses the gap between "participation" and "power sharing" that state agencies need to understand. M4 M3
Jemez Principles for Democratic Organizing
Southwest Network for Environmental and Economic Justice (1996)
Six core values from the 1996 Jemez, New Mexico working group meeting: Be Inclusive, Commitment to Self-Transformation, Work Together in Solidarity and Mutuality, Build Just Relationships Among Ourselves, and more. Adopted by Sierra Club, Climate Justice Alliance, Rainforest Action Network, and many other organizations. Emphasize shifting from individualism to community-centeredness.
Why it matters: Foundational principles for how organizations partner across difference. Critical for M3 (understanding CBO values) and M4 (how agencies should approach communities). M3 M4
Arnstein's Ladder of Citizen Participation (and Updated Analyses)
Sherry Arnstein (1969) / American Planning Association updates
Eight-rung ladder: Manipulation, Therapy (non-participation); Informing, Consultation, Placation (tokenism); Partnership, Delegated Power, Citizen Control (citizen power). Updated analyses include Fraser's three dimensions of justice (cultural, economic, political) and McAlevey's organizing model extending beyond the highest rung. APA blog series "Revisiting Arnstein's Ladder" applies justice-as-parity framework.
Why it matters: Historical reference point for all engagement frameworks. The "tokenism vs. citizen power" distinction is crucial for M4 -- helps staff recognize when engagement is performative vs. meaningful. M4
CBPR Step-by-Step Guide
New Mexico Higher Education Consortium (NMHEC)
Comprehensive "how-to" guide for community-based participatory research. Breaks down the CBPR process into six phases. Core principles: develop mutually beneficial research addressing community-identified needs, value community knowledge, meaningfully involve community partners, advance social justice, disseminate results accessibly.
Why it matters: CBPR methodology is the research parallel to meaningful engagement. Provides structured approach for M3 (how CBOs contribute to research) and M4 (partnership models). M3 M4
Washington State HEAL Act Community Engagement Guide
Washington State Department of Health
Official guidance for seven state agencies on community engagement under the Healthy Environment for All (HEAL) Act (2021). Requires agencies to incorporate EJ into strategic plans, develop community engagement plans, create tribal consultation frameworks, and conduct EJ assessments for significant actions.
Why it matters: Direct peer model -- state-mandated engagement guidance for agencies. Structure (strategic plans + engagement plans + assessments) mirrors what MA is building. M4 M1
Vermont EJ Law: Core Principles of Community Engagement
Vermont Agency of Natural Resources
Draft core principles including: compensating community members for their expertise, conducting accessible and inclusive outreach, being transparent and accountable, and committing enough time to do engagement well.
Why it matters: Another New England state's approach to codifying engagement principles. The compensation principle is particularly progressive and relevant to M4 discussions. M4
DOE Community Guide to Environmental Justice and NEPA Methods
U.S. Department of Energy
Guide helping communities understand and participate in the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) process through an environmental justice lens. Explains how communities can engage in federal environmental review.
Why it matters: Shows the community perspective on federal environmental review -- helps state staff understand what communities face when trying to participate. M4 M1
Local Infrastructure Hub: Partnering with CBOs to Advance EJ (Webinar)
Local Infrastructure Hub
Webinar recording and summary on how local governments can partner effectively with community-based organizations to advance environmental justice. Documents real partnership models and best practices.
Why it matters: Government-CBO partnership is the core of M3. Webinar format means it could be assigned as pre-work. M3
WRI: Justice40 and CBOs -- Driving Environmental Justice Forward
World Resources Institute
Analysis of how community-based organizations are central to Justice40 implementation. Documents CBO roles in ensuring federal investments reach disadvantaged communities. Shows CBOs as essential intermediaries between government programs and communities.
Why it matters: Makes the case for CBO value with federal program evidence -- directly supports M3's core argument. M3
Center for Sustainable Energy: Guide on Collaborating with CBOs
Center for Sustainable Energy
Practical guide for government and utility entities on collaborating with community-based organizations to deliver EV and clean energy programs. Covers relationship building, active listening, equitable compensation, and measurement/reporting.
Why it matters: Sector-specific CBO partnership guide with practical recommendations. Energy programs are relevant to MA agencies (DOER, MassCEC). M3
EPA Spectrum of Public Involvement
U.S. EPA, Office of International and Tribal Affairs
EPA's adaptation of public participation frameworks for environmental decision-making. Part of EPA's comprehensive Public Participation Guide with internet resources on participation methods, tools, and approaches.
Why it matters: EPA's own participation framework sets the federal standard that state agencies should align with. M4
5. Equitable Program Design 8 resources Module 5
Justice40 Implementation Guide for State and Local Governments
Emerald Cities Collaborative
Comprehensive guide for state and local governments on implementing Justice40 principles with federal dollars. Covers how to leverage federal guidance, define disadvantaged communities, design equitable programs, and measure benefit flows. (Note: Justice40 Initiative was revoked in January 2025, but principles remain applicable.)
Why it matters: THE implementation guide for equitable benefit distribution at state/local level. Core reference for M5 capstone design exercises. M5
EJNCF State & Local Justice40 Advocacy Toolkit
Equitable and Just National Climate Forum
Toolkit providing background on Justice40 Initiative, overview of state-level actions, and steps advocates and community leaders can take to embed Justice40 commitments in local government. Designed for community advocacy but useful for understanding what communities expect from government programs.
Why it matters: Shows the community advocacy perspective on equitable program design. Helps staff anticipate community expectations. M5
Targeted Universalism Framework
john a. powell / Othering & Belonging Institute, UC Berkeley
Framework setting universal goals for the general population accomplished through targeted approaches based on different groups' needs. Moves beyond both universal approaches (which ignore structural barriers) and purely targeted approaches (which can be politically vulnerable). Requires deeper understanding of situatedness within structures.
Why it matters: Foundational framework for M5. Resolves the "universal vs. targeted" tension in program design. Provides the theoretical backbone for how agencies can design programs that serve everyone while addressing specific group needs. M5
Targeted Universalism Video: Leading Towards Equity
john a. powell / Othering & Belonging Institute
Video presentation by john a. powell explaining the targeted universalism framework, why universal and purely targeted strategies fall short, and how the framework advances equity.
Why it matters: Video format makes the framework accessible for training. Could be integrated directly into M5 as a watch-and-discuss activity. M5
Esri Racial & Social Equity Impact Assessment Tool
Esri (GIS platform)
GIS-based social equity analysis solution helping governments assess where lack of access to resources exists, who is impacted, and where to intervene. Provides mapping and data tools for equity impact assessments of proposed interventions.
Why it matters: Practical technology tool for operationalizing equity in program design. Demo-able in M5 if agencies use GIS. M5
Colorado Environmental Equity and Cumulative Impact Analysis
Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment
2024 law-mandated analysis examining how environmental and public health issues affect specific places, especially disproportionately impacted communities. Includes assessment methodology for cumulative impacts.
Why it matters: Peer state model for cumulative impact analysis -- directly relevant to MA's new requirements. Methodology adaptable for M5 exercises. M5 M1
GAO Report: Agency Actions to Implement Justice40 (2025)
U.S. Government Accountability Office
GAO review of federal agency actions to implement the Justice40 Initiative. Documents challenges, leading practices, and recommendations for strengthening equitable program implementation across agencies.
Why it matters: Independent evaluation of what worked and what did not in equitable program implementation. Lessons learned directly applicable to state-level program design in M5. M5
Washington State EJ Assessment Process (HEAL Act)
Washington State Department of Ecology / DOH
Structured EJ assessment process for significant agency actions. Agencies identify overburdened communities and vulnerable populations, assess environmental benefits and harms, analyze associated health impacts, and develop options to mitigate harms and distribute benefits equitably. Uses detailed reporting template.
Why it matters: Operational model for how agencies conduct EJ assessments before taking significant actions. Template and process directly inform M5 capstone design. M5
6. Video & Multimedia Resources 10 resources All Modules
TED Talk: Peggy Shepard -- "How to Build an Equitable and Just Climate Future"
TED / Peggy Shepard (WE ACT co-founder)
WE ACT co-founder Peggy Shepard discusses turning "sacrifice zones" into "green zones" that redress the legacy of pollution. Addresses environmental racism, community organizing, and pathways to climate justice.
Why it matters: Powerful, concise introduction to sacrifice zones and community-led EJ advocacy. Ideal opening or closing video for M3 or M4. M3 M4
Documentary: "The Sacrifice Zone" (2020)
Director: Julie Winokur / Ironbound Community Corporation
Award-winning documentary following Maria Lopez-Nunez leading EJ fighters in Newark's Ironbound neighborhood -- one of the most toxic areas in America. Documents how Portuguese, Brazilian, Central American, and African American communities are separated from toxic substances by a railroad track. Available on Vimeo On Demand.
Why it matters: Powerful, emotionally compelling documentary showing real EJ community struggle. Clips could be used in M3 (CBO value -- shows ICC's role) or M1 (EJ history/context). M3 M1
Documentary: "Mossville: When Great Trees Fall" (2019)
Director: Alexander Glustrom
"Documentary of the Year" from Louisiana Endowment for the Humanities. Tells story of Stacey Ryan and Mossville, Louisiana -- an African American community founded by formerly enslaved people, surrounded by petrochemical refineries. Documents birth defects, cancer, liver disease from toxic exposure. Subjects include Environmental Studies, Public Health, Public Policy, and Environmental Law.
Why it matters: Rich case study covering M1 (policy failure), M2 (health impacts), and M3 (community resilience). Educational subject tags make it easy to match clips to specific modules. M1 M2
USGS Webinar Series: Incorporating Climate and EJ into Research (2024)
U.S. Geological Survey / National Climate Adaptation Science Centers
Webinar series (February-May 2024) on integrating climate and EJ principles into research and resource management. All webinars were recorded, transcribed, and posted online.
Why it matters: Recent, recorded training content from a federal science agency. Relevant to M1 and M5. M1
DOI EJ Technical Assistance Webinar Series
U.S. Department of the Interior, EJ Steering Committee
Ongoing webinar series providing access to the Interagency Working Group on EJ. Topics include federal grant opportunities, Grants.gov navigation, and community awareness of federal agency EJ strategies.
Why it matters: Demonstrates federal interagency EJ coordination -- relevant context for state staff understanding the federal landscape. M1
WE ACT Podcast
WE ACT for Environmental Justice
Ongoing podcast covering EJ topics. Episode 37: "Looking Back, Thinking Forward: Building on the Success of 2024" covers 2024 accomplishments and 2025 policy advocacy. Regular episodes feature EJ leaders and community voices.
Why it matters: Authentic CBO voice on EJ issues. Specific episodes could be assigned as pre-work for M3 or M4. M3
Brightline Podcast: Stories of EJ Leaders from California
Brightline Defense
Podcast exploring local EJ issues across California, highlighting the work of activists, decision-makers, and community-based organizations. Features individual stories of community advocates.
Why it matters: Personal stories of EJ leaders humanize the work. Good supplementary listening for M3. M3
EJ/CJ Film Archive (UCSB Orfalea Center)
UC Santa Barbara, Orfalea Center for Global & International Studies
Curated archive of environmental and climate justice films, documentaries, and media resources. Includes standing films covering human rights, environmental protection, inequality, and climate change.
Why it matters: Curated film list saves time in finding appropriate video content for all modules. All
Global Environmental Justice Documentary Collection (Docuseek)
Docuseek / UC Santa Cruz
Collection of 46 faculty-selected documentaries covering environmental justice topics globally. Available through institutional subscription. Films address toxic emissions, water contamination, nuclear waste, natural hazards, and more.
Why it matters: Largest curated collection of EJ documentaries. Institutional access may be available through MA state library systems. All
john a. powell: Targeted Universalism Video Presentation
Othering & Belonging Institute, UC Berkeley
Video lecture by john a. powell explaining targeted universalism, its theoretical foundations, and practical applications for equity-centered policy and program design.
Why it matters: Watch-and-discuss ready content for M5 capstone. powell is a compelling speaker who makes complex theory accessible. M5
7. Massachusetts-Specific Resources 7 resources M1
Massachusetts EJ Strategy (February 2024)
Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs (EEA)
Comprehensive 182-page roadmap with initiatives and programs to advance EJ and equity across EEA and its agencies. Each agency presents its own EJ strategies separately. Developed since October 2022 as a high-level statewide EJ action plan.
Why it matters: THE governing document for the OEJE training project. All module content must align with this strategy. Required reading for all module developers. M1
Massachusetts Environmental Justice Policy (Updated 2021)
EEA
Updated EJ policy following the 2021 Climate Law that codified EJ for the first time in Massachusetts. Defines "environmental justice" and "EJ Populations" in accordance with statute. Requires EJ training for EEA and secretariat employees. Stronger framework than 2017 predecessor.
Why it matters: Legal foundation for the entire training program. The training mandate comes from this policy. Core content for M1. M1
Massachusetts EJ Populations Map Viewer
EEA / MassGIS
Interactive map displaying 2020 EJ block groups based on demographic criteria: income (65% or less of statewide median), minority population (40%+), English proficiency (25%+ limited), or combined minority/income criteria. Downloadable as shapefile or file geodatabase.
Why it matters: Hands-on tool for M1 exercises. Staff should be able to identify EJ populations in their agency's service area. M1
MA DPH Environmental Justice Tool
Massachusetts Department of Public Health / MEPHT
Tool facilitating use of the EOEEA EJ Policy for inclusive community planning, environmental assessment, siting, permitting, Brownfields cleanup, MEPA review, grant applications, transportation projects, and climate impact assessments. Includes custom mapping tutorial.
Why it matters: DPH-specific EJ tool -- directly relevant for DPH staff in training. Tutorial makes it trainable. M1 M2
Massachusetts Cumulative Impact Analysis for Air Quality Permits
Massachusetts (First state to require this)
Massachusetts became the first state to require analysis of cumulative impacts for air quality permits near EJ populations. Guidance on how to conduct cumulative impact analysis including public outreach, assessment of existing conditions, and cumulative impact analysis using MATRiST (Air Toxics Risk Screening Tool).
Why it matters: Landmark MA-specific requirement that staff must understand. Core M1 content showing how EJ policy becomes operational. M1
EEA Environmental Justice Policy (Online Portal)
EEA Online
Online portal for the EJ Policy implementation including OEJE public training opportunities on grant writing, MEPA review process, and Energy Facilities Siting Board comment submission.
Why it matters: Shows existing OEJE training offerings that the 5-module program must complement, not duplicate. M1
Massachusetts on EJ State-by-State
EJ State by State
Comprehensive profile of Massachusetts EJ laws, policies, and programs in the national EJ State-by-State database. Includes comparison data with other states.
Why it matters: Provides external perspective on MA's EJ landscape. Useful for M1 to show where MA stands nationally. M1
8. Foundational Texts & Movement History 5 resources M1
17 Principles of Environmental Justice (1991)
First National People of Color Environmental Leadership Summit
17 principles adopted by consensus at the October 1991 summit in Washington, DC. Over 1,100 activists from all 50 states, Puerto Rico, Chile, Mexico, and the Marshall Islands participated. Principles serve as the defining document for the EJ movement -- the "North Star" for communities fighting environmental harms.
Why it matters: THE foundational document of the EJ movement. Must be included in M1 as required reading. Understanding these principles is prerequisite to all other module content. M1
Robert Bullard: "Dumping in Dixie" (1990)
Robert D. Bullard (Texas Southern University)
The first book to discuss environmental injustices holistically. Documents five American communities of color rallying to protect health from pollution. Called the "environmental justice bible." Bullard, the "Father of Environmental Justice," co-organized the 1991 Summit and helped pass Executive Order 12898.
Why it matters: Foundational text for understanding EJ as a movement. Selected excerpts or summary can anchor M1's historical context section. M1
Executive Order 12898 (1994) & Executive Order 14096 (2023)
U.S. Presidents Clinton (1994) and Biden (2023)
EO 12898 (1994): First federal EJ executive order directing agencies to address disproportionate environmental/health effects on minority and low-income populations. EO 14096 (2023): "Whole-of-government" approach to EJ, broader agency scope, required EJ Strategic Plans, established White House Office of EJ. Note: Both revoked January 2025, but principles and frameworks remain relevant.
Why it matters: Core legal/policy content for M1. Staff must understand the federal EJ policy arc even though current federal posture has shifted. M1
EJ Movement History Timeline
SCS Engineers / Various Sources
Warren County PCB landfill protest (1982), UCC "Toxic Wastes and Race" report (1987), Michigan Conference on Race (1990), First National People of Color Summit (1991), EO 12898 (1994), EO 14096 (2023). Comprehensive timeline of the EJ movement from grassroots origins to federal policy.
Why it matters: Timeline structure is directly usable in M1 slide design. Grounds staff in the movement's origins and evolution. M1
Catherine Coleman Flowers / CREEJ
Center for Rural Enterprise and Environmental Justice
Founder of CREEJ addressing environmental, economic, and health disparities in marginalized rural communities. Author of "Waste: One Woman's Fight Against America's Dirty Secret." Focuses on wastewater infrastructure failures in rural Alabama -- expanding EJ beyond urban/industrial contexts.
Why it matters: Expands EJ narrative beyond urban pollution to include rural infrastructure failures. Important for MA agencies working in rural areas. M1 M2
Research Notes:
- The 2025 National EJ Conference was canceled due to federal executive orders revoking EJ mandates.
- EO 12898 and EO 14096 were both revoked in January 2025, but frameworks and tools developed under them remain valuable references.
- CEJST (Climate and Economic Justice Screening Tool) was removed from the White House website in January 2025; an unofficial copy exists via the Public Environmental Data Project.
- Massachusetts is the first state to require cumulative impact analysis for air quality permits near EJ populations.
- UC Davis's Appendix B (Review of Existing EJ and Health Equity Curricula) is a meta-resource that surveys additional training programs not individually listed here.
- Class Central indexes 100+ EJ online courses across Coursera, edX, and YouTube from institutions including MIT, Stanford, and Michigan.