A Toxic Legacy: How Racism is Killing the Planet | Parker McMullen Bushman | TEDxBoulder

In this powerful and thought-provoking talk, Parker McMullen Bushman challenges us to confront the stark reality of environmental racism and its deep-rooted ties to systems of oppression. Parker sheds light on how policies like redlining have led to neighborhoods of color being plagued by pollution and poor health outcomes, while affluent areas thrive in cleaner environments. Drawing from their career in environmental education and environmental justice, Parker explains how systemic discrimination impacts life expectancy, health, and access to nature. Meet Parker McMullen Bushman, CEO and Founder of Ecoinclusive Strategies, and Co-founder of Inclusive Guide. Listed by Outside Magazine as one of the 20 Most Influential People in the Outdoor Industry. Parker is a dynamic speaker and facilitator who engages organizations in new thinking around what it means to be a diversity change agent and create dynamic organizational change. Parker’s background in the non-profit leadership, conservation, environmental education, and outdoor recreation fields spans over 24+ years. Parker has a passion for equity and inclusion in outdoor spaces. Parker tackles these complex issues by addressing them through head-on activism and education. Parker has a Master of Natural Resources from the University of Wisconsin Stevens Point, with a focus in Interpretation and Environmental Education. They lead several committees that focus on diversity in environmental fields as well as a presenter and trainer on diversity issues. They also sit on the board of the National Association for Interpretation and The Next 100 Coalition and formerly served on the board for Environmental Learning for Kids. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx