Beck, Nyah E. | Winter 2023 EiJ Annotations
nebeckWhat are PODER’s primary goals and objectives regarding environmental justice and social sustainability?
Could you describe the organization’s stance on current political and social issues?
Beck, Nyah E. | Winter 2023 EiJ Annotations
nebeckBy working closely with the communities it seeks to support, PODER advances justice and good governance by emphasizing the voices of stakeholders in the affected neighborhoods. Doing so is challenging the systemic inequalities and promoting environmental and social sustainability; these practices are significant because they would benefit all communities regardless of race, ethnicity, or income level.
Beck, Nyah E. | Winter 2023 EiJ Annotations
nebeckIn the media, PODER is generally recognized as one of the leading environmental justice organizations advocating for social and environmental justice in the Bay Area. It has been praised for its work in promoting environmental justice and initiatives that support affordable housing. Still, it has also faced criticism from some groups who disagree with its political positions and tactics.
Beck, Nyah E. | Winter 2023 EiJ Annotations
nebeckPODER functions within the environmental justice sector, advocating for equitable and sustainable solutions to ecological problems in low-income communities of color in the San Francisco Mission District.
Beck, Nyah E. | Winter 2023 EiJ Annotations
nebeckPODER collaborates with other community-based organizations and other parties that can advance its goals. Their list of collaborative organizations includes and is not limited to; the Environmental Justice Coalition for Water, the Bayview Hunters Point Mothers and Fathers Committee, and the San Francisco Rising Alliance.
Beck, Nyah E. | Winter 2023 EiJ Annotations
nebeckChanges in government policies and regulations can impact the organization's ability to achieve its goals, requiring innovative and creative solutions to continue developing new opportunities for organizing and advocacy. Shifting public opinion and media coverage can also affect how the public and policymakers perceive the organization.
Beck, Nyah E. | Winter 2023 EiJ Annotations
nebeckGiven the nature of PODER's work, environmental racism, injustice, and compounding effects of intersectionality are challenges present within this organization and relate to their modes of advocacy. Keeping the community engaged and participating in efforts is challenging because stakeholders often require volunteer time and effort to participate in different activities and advocacy efforts. This in itself is an issue all organizations can struggle with.
Beck, Nyah E. | Winter 2023 EiJ Annotations
nebeckAmong the organizations I have looked at thus far, PODER offers programming and mentorship opportunities specifically to mobilize the youth; this is not something they claim to be as unique and singular to their organization, but when compared to the others, this proactive attempt to drive interest and importance of environmental issues to youth is a great strategy to implement for future ecological justice activists, advocates, and champions.
Beck, Nyah E. | Winter 2023 EiJ Annotations
nebeckPODER works closely with community members and partner organizations to research and share data relating to environmental justice issues. They rely on peer-reviewed research and data from reputable sources to ensure the information they have and circulate is relevant and accurate. The organization also is proactive in being transparent and accountability measures to invite feedback from community members and stakeholders.