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Sustain Charlotte denounces federal rollbacks on climate, equity, and public health protections

EO statement

At Sustain Charlotte, we are deeply troubled by the recent executive orders issued by President Trump that roll back critical protections and programs addressing climate change, public health, and equity.

At the heart of the order to eliminate all federal diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) and environmental justice programs and positions lies a denial of the systemic inequities that these programs are designed to address. The need for such programs stems from a long history of discrimination and exclusion through the policies and practices of government and private organizations. By dismantling these efforts, we risk erasing the progress made toward creating a more just and equitable society.

Sustain Charlotte has been and will remain committed to advancing equity, diversity and inclusion, and environmental justice — not only within our organization but through our work across the Charlotte area. Our commitment to DEI, which is outlined on our website, emphasizes that we prioritize building relationships and experiences that are inclusive and welcoming to people of all backgrounds and abilities. We believe in actively working to ensure everyone’s voice is heard and treating each person with respect and dignity, embracing their differences and welcoming their ideas with an open mind.

We stand by this principle and will continue to foster partnerships and initiatives that amplify diverse voices, empower marginalized communities, and create sustainable solutions that benefit everyone.

The executive orders dismantling critical protections against air and water pollution, fast-tracking fossil fuel extraction, withdrawing our nation from the international Paris climate agreement, calling for the repeal of regulations that encourage the development of electric vehicles, and halting the leasing of federal waters for offshore wind farms, among others, are deeply alarming. These actions will harm public health, will exacerbate the climate crisis, and undermine efforts to transition to a safe, affordable, and sustainable energy future. They also ignore the pressing need to act decisively on climate change to protect future generations and vulnerable communities already bearing the brunt of environmental degradation.

In short, these executive actions represent a significant step backward for our nation.

In the face of this assault on federal policies and programs designed to protect our environment, health, and equity, Sustain Charlotte stands firmer than ever in our mission. We will continue to help local residents advocate for solutions to these critical problems, working collaboratively to address climate change, improve public health, and promote equity in the Charlotte region and beyond. Our commitment to creating a sustainable, inclusive, and equitable future for all remains unwavering.

We call on our community to join us in standing up for these values. Together, we can ensure that progress continues, even in the face of challenges, and that every voice has a role in shaping a better future for all.


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