June 2025

By: Ty McFarland, Director of Communications for NCLCVF, city of Raleigh, NC & 2024 Fellow

Part of Celebrating Juneteenth is Remembering NC’s Rich Black History

As Juneteenth approaches on the 19th, I’m reflecting on the powerful contributions of Black and Brown communities in North Carolina—and how their voices have helped shape a more just and equitable world. One story that deserves remembering is that of Warren County, NC—a small but determined community whose resistance sparked the birth of the U.S. Environmental Justice Movement.

This spark didn’t ignite destruction. It lit a fire of purpose. A fire that warms, empowers, and invites us all to stand up for the health and safety of our communities.

The Spark That Started a Movement

Communities have been fighting for environmental protections for generations, but the protests in Warren County in 1982 marked a turning point.

That year, the state of North Carolina chose to dump toxic chemicals in a predominantly Black, Brown, and low-income area—despite strong community opposition. When their voices were ignored, residents took to the streets. Some carried signs and marched. Others lay down in front of trucks carrying the contaminated soil. Many were arrested.

Among those arrested was Dr. Ben Chavis, a longtime civil rights leader, who during this time coined the term “environmental racism.” His words gave a name to what so many had experienced—and they continue to shape the conversation around environmental justice today.

Carrying the Torch

The fire that began in Warren County still burns—but it needs new torchbearers. Just like runners in a relay, we must keep passing the flame, generation to generation.

So how do we carry the torch?

We speak out. That doesn’t always mean protests or speeches. It can be a conversation at the dinner table, or a quiet talk in the car. What matters is that we talk—about our history, our challenges, and our vision for a better future.

Not everyone will listen. That’s okay. But some will. And they’ll take action. And that action will inspire others. This is how movements grow—through connection, courage, and persistence.

Unity Is Power

One of the most powerful lessons from Warren County is that people stood together. Black, White, Brown, Indigenous. Rich, poor. Everyone. Because environmental justice is everyone’s fight. Clean air, safe water, and healthy communities aren’t luxuries. They are rights.

So no matter who you are, you have a role. You can stand up for your community. You can speak against racism and injustice. You can be a leader, even when the road feels uncertain. Especially then.

As we celebrate Juneteenth, I hope you spend time with loved ones. Laugh. Rest. Reflect. And I also hope you take a moment to remember those who came before us—and think about how we’ll leave the world better for those who come next.

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