Proposed Plant Prompts Hunger Strike

A group of activists in the Southeast Side of Chicago recently ended a 30 day hunger strike. They protested the relocation of a General Iron metal-shredding plant from the more affluent Lincoln Park neighborhood to the Southeast Side, which is a predominantly Latino and Black working class community. Activists say the industrial area is full of environmental hazards already.   

To hear more about the issue, environmental racism and what can be done from a policy standpoint, The 21st heard from activists. 

Guests:

Alderman Byron Sigcho Lopez, Alderman of Chicago's 25th Ward

Gina Ramirez, Activist and Midwest outreach manager for the Natural Resources Defense Council 

Oscar Sanchez, Activist and co-founder of the Alliance of the Southeast and native of the Hegewisch neighborhood

Editor's note:  the activists had sharp criticism of General Iron Industries and Chicago mayor Lori Lightfoot.

In a statement in late February, the mayor said:  “I have heard your demand and understand that your position, and the position of the broader environmental justice movement, is for a denial of this permit…” and “We are committed to following all pertinent regulations around this permit process.”

A statement from General Iron Industries: “From the ground up, we are building a new, modern facility that we expect will meet or exceed all permit requirements. We plan to continue the environmentally responsible recycling we have conducted at our Southeast Side home for decades.”

Prepared for web by Zainab Qureshi

Help shape our coverage on The 21st by joining our texting group and answering weekly questions. To join, text “TALK” to 217-803-0730 or sign up with your phone number below: