Fact Check: The clinic cites the study in a legal filing opposing a proposed chemical plant beside a predominantly Black neighborhood, arguing the community would be burdened with a disproportionate amount of pollution and less than a fair share of the jobs.

Fact Check: "The clinic cites the study in a legal filing opposing a proposed chemical plant beside a predominantly Black neighborhood, arguing the community would be burdened with a disproportionate amount of pollution and less than a fair share of the jobs."

What We Know

The claim centers on the activities of the Tulane Environmental Law Clinic, which has been involved in legal actions against proposed industrial developments in Louisiana, particularly in areas known as "Cancer Alley." This region is characterized by a high concentration of chemical plants and has been the subject of significant environmental and health concerns, particularly affecting predominantly Black communities. According to reports, the clinic has cited a study in its legal filings that argues these communities would face a disproportionate burden of pollution and would not receive a fair share of employment opportunities from the proposed chemical plant (AP News, Morning Sun).

The study referenced by the clinic indicates that Black residents in Louisiana's petrochemical corridor experience higher levels of pollution and are underrepresented in job opportunities within the industry. Specifically, it highlights that while Black individuals make up a significant portion of the population in these areas, they hold a disproportionately low number of jobs in both high- and low-paying positions in the petrochemical sector (AP News, Mother Jones).

Analysis

The evidence supporting the claim is robust, as it is corroborated by multiple reputable sources. The Tulane Environmental Law Clinic's involvement in legal actions against the proposed chemical plant is well-documented, and their arguments are based on empirical research that highlights racial disparities in pollution exposure and job opportunities (AP News, AP News). The study conducted by the clinic and cited in their legal filings has been recognized for its thorough analysis of employment inequities, particularly in Louisiana, where people of color are significantly underrepresented in the petrochemical workforce (AP News, Verite News).

The reliability of the sources is high, as they include reports from established news organizations such as the Associated Press and Mother Jones, which are known for their investigative journalism and commitment to factual reporting. The claims made by the Tulane Environmental Law Clinic are supported by data from credible institutions, including the U.S. Census Bureau and the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, which adds to the credibility of the findings (AP News, Verite News).

However, it is important to note that the chemical industry has disputed the findings of the study, arguing that it presents an incomplete picture of the industry's contributions and efforts to improve equity in employment. This counter-narrative, while relevant, does not negate the evidence presented by the Tulane study but rather highlights the ongoing debate surrounding environmental justice and economic opportunity in the region (Mother Jones, AP News).

Conclusion

The claim that the Tulane Environmental Law Clinic cites a study in a legal filing opposing a proposed chemical plant beside a predominantly Black neighborhood, arguing that the community would bear a disproportionate amount of pollution and receive less than a fair share of jobs, is True. The evidence provided by multiple reliable sources supports this assertion, demonstrating a clear link between the clinic's legal actions and the findings of the cited study.

Fact Check: The clinic cites the study in a legal filing opposing a proposed chemical plant beside a predominantly Black neighborhood, arguing the community would be burdened with a disproportionate amount of pollution and less than a fair share of the jobs.