Berkeley Ecology Law Quarterly recently published a law review article by Sarah Martinez. This article is a work product from her time as a Water Policy Specialist at the Center for Water Policy. Her research sheds light on the enduring issue of racial disparities in access to outdoor recreation, particularly “blue spaces” (beaches and pools). The article delves into the historical exclusion and environmental justice challenges faced by Black and People of Color and ties that to barriers that still exist today. The research also discusses potential tools, such as the public trust doctrine and legislative initiatives like the Environmental Justice for All Act, which may aid in achieving equitable access to blue spaces.
Read the research:
Sarah R. Martinez, “Racism in the Water: Access for all in Outdoor Recreation” 50.1 Ecology Law Quarterly 1 (2023)
In December 2023, the Center for Water Policy along with the UWM Black Student Cultural Center and the Alliance for the Great Lakes hosted a free virtual webinar to discuss systematic barriers to outdoor recreation for Black and People of Color, and possible remedies.
Sarah Martinez, a former Water Policy Specialist at the Center for Water Policy presented her research uncovering the historical exclusion and environmental justices challenges faced by Black and People of Color in her recently published law review article, “Racism in the Water: Access for All in Outdoor Recreation“.
This research talk was complimented by a panel of students sharing their experiences, thoughts, and ideas in confronting these barriers moderated by Crystal Davis from the Alliance for the Great Lakes.
You can view a recording of the full webinar here: