Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
ORBA is dedicated to prioritizing the needs and vulnerabilities of at-risk, low-income or underserved communities throughout the Ohio River Basin and works to align all strategies and priorities with environmental justice outcomes.
Highlight: 2024 Summit Plenary Panel
In the Ohio River Basin, there is a diversity of communities, histories, and priorities. From the Underground Railroad to the present, communities have pushed for equity and support to build vibrant economies. In this plenary panel session during the 2024 ORBA Summit, Bishop Marcia Dinkins introduced the work of the Black Appalachian Coalition (BLAC) and led a discussion with local leaders from across the basin to learn more about their work and priorities for federal funding.
Key Partner:
NWF
The National Wildlife Federation, the largest and oldest environmental non-profit in the United States, advocates for wildlife conservation in the nation and, through the Tribal Partnership Program, works with sovereign tribal nations to solve today's conservation challenges for future generations. The Ohio River Basin and Restoration and Protection Plan is being written and revised with input from NWF's tribal partners.
DEI Highlighted Strategic Actions
Environmental Justice
Prioritize the needs and vulnerabilities of at-risk, low-income or underserved communities given the history of ecological and social injustice.
Equity
Ensure that all strategic actions are just and equitable with a focus on flood risk management measures that target areas most in need, address issues of environmental justice, and recognize the importance of tribal communities’ contributions to our culture and history.
Representation
Giving representation to vulnerable populations when decisions are being made can help support restoration priorities, policy solutions, and investment decisions that lead to equitable and just outcomes so that all of the people in the region benefit from the implementation of the regional strategy.
Committee Objectives
1) To provide a voice for underserved populations throughout the decision-making process;
2) advocate for policy solutions that promote equitable and just outcomes for all people in the basin; and
3) facilitate investment decisions that contribute to fair and inclusive regional development.
Committee Leadership
If you'd like to join the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee, email Annie.
Annie Quinn