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Los Angeles Unified School District Board of Education |
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Dr. Rocío Rivas Board Member |
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 4, 2024
CONTACT
Alejandra Ramirez-Zarate, (818) 270-3875, t.ramirezzarate@lausd.net
Los Angeles Unified Board of Education Passes Resolution in Support of ACA 16, the Green Amendment
Resolution urges state legislators to adopt ACA 16, enshrining the right to a healthy environment in the California Constitution.
Los Angeles, CA (June 4, 2024) – The Los Angeles Unified School District Board of Education today approved a resolution in strong support of Assembly Constitutional Amendment 16 (ACA 16), known as the Green Amendment. The resolution, authored by Board Member Dr. Rocío Rivas, and co-sponsored by all other board members, calls upon state legislators to pass ACA 16 and place the Green Amendment on the 2024 ballot.
The Green Amendment would amend the California Constitution to guarantee every resident the right to clean air and water, a stable climate, and a healthy environment. Recognizing the disproportionate impact of environmental injustices on communities of color and low-income communities, the Green Amendment is a crucial step towards achieving environmental justice and equity.
The Los Angeles Unified School District serves a diverse student population, many of whom live in communities overburdened by pollution and environmental hazards. By passing this resolution, the Board of Education demonstrates its commitment to protecting the health and well-being of its students, staff, and the broader community.
“The District’s unwavering commitment to environmental stewardship and the well-being of our students is embodied in the resolution supporting ACA 16, the Green Amendment. By advocating for the constitutional right to a clean and healthy environment, we are not only safeguarding our natural resources but also ensuring a brighter, more sustainable future for generations to come,” Board Member Dr. Rocío Rivas said. “This resolution reflects the values of our communities and aligns with our ongoing efforts to create green spaces, promote sustainability, and educate our youth about the importance of environmental conservation."
“We have the fundamental right to live but apparently we do not have the fundamental right to live well,” said Board Vice President Scott M. Schmerelson. “It is sad to know that some of our students are drinking tainted water at home, living next to hazardous chemicals due to their zip code, or live in highly polluted areas. I hope the State of California does the right thing and begins the process to ensure all Californians have the right to clean air and clean water in their neighborhoods.”
Board President Jackie Goldberg said, “The right to clean air, water, and a healthy environment should be a basic human right. I agree wholeheartedly with Board Member Rivas that we must lead the way for children here in California by supporting ACA 16 to codify the right to these basic necessities into our State Constitution.”
Board Member Nick Melvoin said, “Every child deserves to breathe clean air and drink clean water, and I’m grateful to the Legislature for taking steps to codify these rights for all Californians. We will continue working to provide a greener future for our students and school communities and to support action at every level of government to do the same.”
Board Member George McKenna III said, “California often leads the nation in environmental policy, and I am fully in support of ACA 16, which will codify Californians’ rights to clean air, water and a healthier environment.”
Board Member Kelly Gonez said, “I’m proud to cosponsor this resolution; it’s past time that we codify Californians’ right to a healthy environment. As Board Member for communities that are heavily industrial and have sustained serious environmental injustices, we need our state lawmakers to make decisions that ensure safe and clean air and water, rather than decisions that further exacerbate inequality and harm our most vulnerable residents.”
Board Member Ortiz Franklin said, “I stand with my colleagues to support ACA 16, the Green Amendment. Every child, youth and adult deserves to enjoy full access to clean air, water, and green spaces, no matter their zip code. It is our responsibility as policymakers to make change –let’s come together to champion a healthier, brighter future for our students and communities.”
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