S.A.F.E. Diversity Communities has embarked on a project to highlight the environmental injustice and climate angers in the Houston, TX area particularly Northwest Houston. In collaboration with EarthWorks, and S.A.F.E. Diversity has initiated a three-month project. The bus trip was not just a journey but a pivotal step for the S.A.F.E Diversity Environmental Equity and Climate Justice Committee. It was a powerful demonstration of our collective concern for the ecosystem and climate change with a diverse group of participants. The bus was filled with kids as young as two years old, high school students, college ambassadors, and senior citizens united in voicing their concerns. The tour’s success was made possible by the support of Earthworks, t.e.j.a.s, C.O.C.O., Counterstream Media, Plastic Citizen, TSU, Texas Campaign For Environment, Hosanna Lutheran Church, and Odyssey Limousine.

One might ask, "What is a Toxic/Solidarity Bus Tour?"

A toxic/solidarity Bus Tour is not just an organized event but a powerful demonstration of community leadership. These tours are led by community members, activists, or organizations directly affected by environmental issues, and they aim to raise awareness about the environmental and health impacts of pollution. They also serve to build solidarity with the communities that are most affected. The term toxic refers to the exposure to harmful chemicals or pollutants, while solidarity emphasizes the support and unity with the affected communities.

These tours are often part of broader environmental justice movements, advocating for policy changes, accountability from polluting industries, and improved living conditions for marginalized communities. Dr. Thelma Scott, Founder & President of S.A.F.E. Diversity, believes that education is not just a step but a cornerstone in the fight for clean air and clean water. Educating yourself about the environment is crucial because it helps you understand the interconnectedness of ecosystems, the impact of human activities on the planet, and the importance of sustainability. This awareness empowers you to make informed decisions that contribute to the well-being of the planet and future generations. It also allows you to advocate for policies and practices that protect natural resources, reduce pollution, and combat climate change.

During the tour, several activists spoke about the various sites visited. Starting from Hosanna Lutheran Church, the bus ventured down Kuykendahl to one of the largest underground reservoirs in North America, located near a senior living property, neighborhoods, and schools.

Riders could visibly see the HPL (Houston Pipeline System) containing natural gas. There were parks and neighborhoods nestled within dangerous tanks. The eerie reality set in as riders saw Manchester and Harrisburg communities in Houston surrounded by refineries, chemical plants, and hazardous waste sites, contributing to severe environmental pollution. The air and soil are heavily contaminated, leading to elevated rates of asthma and cancer among the predominantly black and brown residents. It is rumored that if you stay outside long enough, your nail polish will change colors.

While on the tour in Baytown, riders began to see smoke at a distance, which was later revealed to be a fire at a metal recycling facility. An alarming reality exists in Manchester and Harrisburg, North Houston, and South Houston, where gas tanks and toxic areas pose a constant explosion risk, compounding the residents' hazardous living conditions. It is crucial to strive for a safer, healthier future for future generations. S.A.F.E. Diversity Communities has a monthly virtual workshop to educate our students, family members, and the community on environmental and climate injustice. Our guest speakers are one of our college ambassadors and professional guests speaking on environmental and climate injustice, and this can affect your mental health.

 Everyone has a right to live, breathe clean air, and live in a safe and healthy environment

For more information about S.A.F.E. Diversity Communities, please visit: https://safediversity.org/