In the Fall 2024 iteration of GIRI, students examined systemic inequalities that disproportionately burden marginalized communities with environmental hazards while restricting their access to essential resources.

The course examined activism and reform efforts from both historical and contemporary perspectives. The investigation covered policy solutions, with a particular focus on the Biden Administration’s Justice40 initiative, as pathways to achieving environmental justice. Furthermore, students were able to discuss the pivotal roles that universities and researchers occupy in this complex domain, emphasizing the significance of research justice and the value of engaging with communities.

By the course's end, students had a thorough understanding of environmental justice from theoretical and practical lenses. Drawing from sociology, environmental science, public policy, and law, the course fostered critical thinking, enabling students to analyze issues, navigate policies, and contribute to discussions effectively.

Capstone Event

The course offered an oppurtunity for students to participate in a vertically aligned research team. Together, students planned, conducted, and (aimed to) publish their research findings in a peer-reviewed journal, contributing not only to the academic discourse but also developing valuable research, teamwork, and communication skills.

The capstone was held on Decemebr 3rd, in the Holsti-Anderson Room in the  Rubenstein Library at Duke University.