We thank you for your service and being a champion for environmental  justice and a tireless advocate for the City of Newark.  As the Executive Director of the South Ward Environmental Alliance, I had the privilege of working closely with Congressman Payne on numerous initiatives aimed at addressing environmental injustices faced by our communities. His passion, dedication, and genuine concern for the well-being of our neighborhoods were evident in every interaction we had. We will always remember his support of our Environmental Justice Tours, annual conference, fight against Amazon and key state and federal legislation. Moreover, as a parent of children with asthma, his commitment to Clean Air and Good Jobs was a personal goal as well.

Beyond his legislative achievements, Congressman Payne was a friend—one who listened, understood, and acted with integrity. His presence at our events, his willingness to amplify our voices, and his steadfast support were invaluable assets in our ongoing fight for environmental justice. He was a proud "Green Councilmember and Congressman", often wearing his green socks and bow tie to show his support. He loved his City and was "Newark Proud" everyday.

Let us honor his legacy by continuing the work he so passionately pursued, by advocating for the causes he held dear, and by striving to make our communities more just and sustainable for future generations.

Rest In Paradise Congressman Donald Payne and thank you for your service to the South Ward, Newark and the United States of America.

South Ward Environmental Alliance 3rd Annual Environmental Summit was held on Saturday, April 27th, at the Hip Hop Temple in the South Ward. South Ward Councilman Patrick Council and Councilman-at-large Larry Crump gave opening remarks to the 150 participants. Asada Rashidi, EJ Organizer opened up the summit with a ceremonial drum tribute to the late Congressman Donald Payne Jr., followed by the Essex County Marching Band performance.

The keynote speaker, Attorney General Matthew Platkin, a key ally in advancing environmental protection and clean energy in New Jersey. As the state's Attorney General, Matt Platkin has been instrumental in championing environmental justice initiatives and enforcing regulations to safeguard our natural resources. His dedication to our cause makes him an invaluable voice in our ongoing efforts for a healthier and greener future.

Our 3rd Annual Summit provided a platform for engaging discussions and networking opportunities aimed at fostering collaboration and empowerment within our community. 

This year’s theme ” Unity, Progress and Legacy; If It Is To Be, It’s Up To Me”, was highlighted in three panels.

Panel 1: "Empowering Communities: Grassroots Initiatives for Environmental Solidarity"

Highlighting the power of grassroots movements and community-driven initiatives in promoting environmental Solidarity.was shared by the panelists, Chloe Desir, EJ Organizer, Ironbound Community Corporation, X Braithwaite, EJ Organizer, Clean Water Action and Nicole Miller, NewarkDIG and moderator Jeanette Mitchell. 

Panel 2: "Policy for Progress: Navigating the Roadmap to Environmental Justice" examines the role of policy-making in driving environmental progress for EJ communities.and explores collaboration with academic institutions, regulatory frameworks and the alignment of policies with local, state, national and global sustainability goals.The moderator

Casandia Bellevue, EarthJustice and Panelist Dr. Ana Baptista. Associate Professor and Co-Director, Tishman Environment & Design Center, The New School University,

Nicole Hewitt-Cabral, Chief Sustainability Officer, City of Newark and Dr. Nicky Sheats, New Jersey Environmental Justice Alliance.

Panel 3: Environmental Legacy

 "Environmental Education: Empowering Future Generations to Uphold Our Legacy" explored the role of environmental education in shaping a legacy of environmental stewardship.This presentation included a video of community partners for the Passport to Green Jobs and Careers and Green Alliance Leadership Academy.. Khaatim Sherrer El, Executive Director, Clinton Hill Community Action, Altorice Frazier , Executive Director, Parents Engaging Parents, and Roxane Neilson, President, RMNeilson Associates

On April 12, 2024, the South Ward Environmental Alliance (SWEA) hosted a Youth Council Luncheon. The event, organized by Youth Organizer Fajr Kegler, brought together a group of passionate youth advocates and mentors in the vibrant city of Newark. 

During the catered luncheon, Fajr presented the initiatives of SWEA's Youth Advisory Council, outlining the organization's strengths and strategic plans for the upcoming summer and the 2025 school year. The audience was privileged to hear from esteemed guests including Essex County Commissioner A'Dorian Murray-Thomas, Altorice Frazier Executive Director of Parents Engaging Parents, and the Director of Community Outreach and Engagement for SHE Wins, Dana Murray. 

Following an inspiring discussion about the mission and vision of the Youth Advisory Council, Fajr detailed the council's efforts to collaborate with schools and community organizations in the South Ward and its surrounding areas. These partnerships aim to advance the adoption of an environmental literacy agenda among youth in our community. 

The luncheon provided a fantastic networking opportunity, enabling attendees to forge valuable relationships and exchange ideas. SWEA is eagerly anticipating the next Youth Advisory Council Luncheon scheduled for this summer. Stay tuned for more updates on our exciting initiatives!

The Newark Office of Sustainability in partnership with Solar One initiated the beginning of their community Emergency Preparedness Pop-Up Series on Saturday April 15,2024 in the South Ward at the Giving One-Tenth Garden. This community event was supported by the Newark Police Department, and many other community organizations that had tables there distributing merchandise and information about the services they provide to the community. Residents enjoyed house music from DJ Dana J, delicious tacos  and  hot beverages to provide extra warmth on the brisk day.

This Solar Community Charger, a part of the Newark Resilient Solar Initiative, was constructed by Newark Public School students to connect climate literacy and solar training.This small scale mobile solar system will service the community for emergency power in vulnerable areas in Newark. The next South Ward event is scheduled for June 15th, Hope Village, 10am-1pm.

On April 17th, the South Ward Environmental Alliance hosted their fifthTruck Count and Air Monitoring Project activity in the South Ward of Newark. The goal is to highlight the extensive amount of truck traffic and diesel pollution that comes through the South Ward each day. Due to weather, data collection for April 18th was postponed to May 8th.

During the initial session on April 17th, participants tallied 2,998 medium-duty and heavy-duty trucks traveling through five intersections of the South Ward from three designated time periods of one hour. On May 8th, the team observed a higher count of 4,230 medium-duty and heavy-duty trucks traveling through the same intersections, reinforcing the pressing need for action. 

Why is air quality monitoring essential?

Monitoring helps in assessing the level of pollution in relation to the ambient air quality standards. These standards are a regulatory measure used to set the target for pollution reduction and achieving clean air.

South Ward Truck Hotspots Monitored:

Lyons Ave + Fabyan Place

Elizabeth Ave + Meeker Ave

Frelinghuysen Ave + Meeker Ave

Frelinghuysen Ave + Empire St

Frelinghuysen Ave + Evergreen Ave

SWEA stands with our residents to fight for a healthy Port of Newark, one that minimizes air pollution and maximizes community benefits and local jobs. Together, our Clean Air Good Jobs initiative will engage a base of Newark residents and workers ready to fight for a clean and healthy Port of Newark.

The voices from the senior population from the Clinton Hill neighborhood were definitely heard and welcomed on Thursday, April 18, 2024 at their Senior in Action Meet-Up luncheon held at the Zion Hill Baptist Church. The Seniors in Action Program empowers older adults from the Clinton Hill community to take the lead in developing the community they envision for themselves. The senior residents were treated to a delicious lunch and provided an opportunity to engage in conversation about issues that affect their quality of life. Evelyn Williams, a member of the steering committee, addressed important issues such as what type of recreational programs they would like to participate in as a group; healthcare services; food distribution disparities and nutritional needs.

One of the seniors expressed an interest in seniors participating in musical training and treated the audience to a musical selection. She was followed by James Young, SWEA Senior Citizen Organizer, who also joined her in singing for the seniors. Each senior who attended this event received a special skincare set as a gift for their participation.

Clinton Hill Community Action celebrates the First Anniversary of ArtXChange

The South Ward was in celebration mode on Tuesday, April 30, 2024 at the new William Mobile Ashby Building where Clinton Hill Community Action in collaboration with the NJPAC provided a showcasing of local talent from our community. This event started with a pre-performance dinner later followed by an evening of exciting performances of local talent and artists. Khaatim Sherrer El, Executive Director of Clinton Hill Community Action addressed the audience and shared the success of this partnership between CHCA and NJPAC. John Schreiber, President and CEO of NJPAC made an appearance that night in support of this joint venture.The evening ended with an energetic cast of singers from the South Ward bringing the audience to their feet singing songs of South Ward pride and unity!

On April 20th, the SWEA Team stood in solidarity with the Ironbound Community Corporation and the community during the March for Clean Air. Gathering at Down Bottom Farms Newark, we united in our shared mission to advocate for cleaner air in our community. At the heart of our protest was our opposition to the Passaic Valley Sewerage Commission's alarming proposal to construct a fourth fossil fuel power plant in the Ironbound of Newark.

With unwavering determination, participants from diverse backgrounds and walks of life came together to make our voices heard. As we marched side by side, we sent a powerful message to decision-makers and stakeholders alike: Newark will not be a sacrifice zone for polluting industries. Our collective action reaffirmed our commitment to safeguarding our environment, protecting public health, and advocating for a future where clean air is a fundamental right for all.

On April 24, 2024, the South Ward Environmental Alliance (SWEA) received a special invitation from an eighth-grade science teacher at Rise Academy in Newark, New Jersey. The purpose was to educate students on environmental justice and the significance of environmental literacy across four class sessions.

The students were treated to a comprehensive lesson on environmental justice in collaboration with their science teacher, Parents Engaging Parents, Clean Water Action and Pacific Environment. They delved into understanding what environmental justice entails and explored the impactful efforts of those involved in this field.

During the session, SWEA’s Environmental Justice  organizer, Asada led a presentation focusing on air quality. Students gained insights into how SWEA monitors community air quality and utilizes gathered data to advocate for improved emission reduction strategies.

Following this, Fajr, SWEA’s Youth Organizer, shared the mission of the youth council, encouraging students to participate in summer volunteering and engagement opportunities with the South Ward Environmental Alliance.

X Braithwaite, an EJ organizer from Clean Water Action further emphasized the importance of civic engagement and advocacy in environmental justice initiatives.

The presentation proved to be highly informative for the students and offered a valuable experience for SWEA outreach to Newark students. We eagerly anticipate extending similar presentations to more schools within the South Ward in the coming future.

Hello! My name is Miles Disciullo and I am the new policy analyst here at SWEA. I am originally

from New York, but recently moved across the river to New Jersey. In between, I have lived in Georgia, Pennsylvania, and Oregon. I attended Willamette University where I studied neuroscience and sociology. I have long been interested in how science and data can be used to improve the quality of our lives, leading me to the field of policy. The passion to improve the quality of our lives is what motivates my work. Many of the issues we face in our world are human made, and I believe they all have human made solutions waiting to be discovered.

When I’m not in the office, you can find me making paper cranes, hiking, bowling, or at some local trivia night. Some fun facts about me: I am classically trained in ballet. I played football in college and I listen to Christmas music all year long.

I am very excited to join an organization that is working for environmental justice, while centering the people we all care for. God bless, and good night.

As part of our EPA Region 2 TCTAC, WE ACT is building a rotating network of community outreach voices to support its in-person outreach throughout New York and New Jersey, ensuring the amplification of communities across our region. The WE ACT TCTAC Community Voices cohort will provide local support curated to meet the needs of regions throughout New York and New Jersey; conduct outreach to regional Environmental Justice communities, ensuring they can utilize TCTAC services; support design and facilitation of in-person training in their region; and provide feedback on the design, implementation, and impact of the TCTAC program. The TCTAC Community Voices will also be crucial in achieving our movement-building goals. Participants will meet throughout the two-year partnership to determine regional priorities regarding environmental justice, climate justice, and energy justice, which will inform a Regional Environmental Justice Network in subsequent years of the project. TCTAC Community Voices will also receive equitable compensation for participation. Learn more here (PDF). Complete the WE ACT TCTAC Community Voices Application Form by 11:59 PM Eastern on Friday, May 31, 2024. Please direct any questions to the WE ACT TCTAC team at ejtctac@weact.org with the subject TCTAC Community Voices Application—[Org Name].

The 2024 State of the Air Report by American Lung Association found that 131 million people are living in communities with unhealthy levels of pollution.

Read more about this as highlighted by Kim Gaddy, Executive Director, South Ward Environmental Alliance and how residents of Newark are impacted by environmental health injustices.

More Than a Third of All Americans Live in Communities with ‘Hazardous’ Air, Lung Association Finds - Inside Climate News

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