South Phoenix Oral History Project

3.8 "Reading Dealing in Toxins on the Wrong Side of the Tracks"

October 03, 2023 Season 3 Episode 8
3.8 "Reading Dealing in Toxins on the Wrong Side of the Tracks"
South Phoenix Oral History Project
More Info
South Phoenix Oral History Project
3.8 "Reading Dealing in Toxins on the Wrong Side of the Tracks"
Oct 03, 2023 Season 3 Episode 8

In Episode 8 of the "South Phoenix Oral History Project," Ele explores a thought-provoking article titled "Dealing in Toxins on the Wrong Side of the Tracks" by Diane Sicotte. This compelling piece delves into the contentious expansion of a hazardous waste facility within a marginalized neighborhood in Phoenix, offering profound insights into the unforeseen consequences of locating such facilities in vulnerable communities.

Ele dissects the article's content, summarizing the key findings and arguments. Sicotte's research unveils a troubling pattern of environmental injustice, where the siting of hazardous facilities in South Central Phoenix, a predominantly poor and minority neighborhood, has perpetuated a cycle of poverty, pollution, and drug-related crime.

Sicotte's methodology, which includes participant observation, document analysis, Census data, GIS mapping, and interviews, provides a comprehensive understanding of the complex issues at play. Residents of South Central Phoenix contend that the siting, permitting process, and subsequent expansion of the hazardous waste facility, along with the surge in drug-related crimes, are all manifestations of environmental racism.

Ele guides listeners through the critical concepts of distributive and participative injustice, shedding light on how the expansion of the facility exacerbated environmental disparities in Phoenix. The intertwining of hazardous waste and drug-related crime presents a compelling case for a holistic approach to understanding environmental justice.

But that's not all. Summer steps in to expand the discussion by exploring the geographical boundaries of South Phoenix as discussed by the author. This adds an essential layer of context to Sicotte's research, helping us comprehend the spatial dynamics of environmental injustice in this vibrant community.

Join Ele and Summer as they navigate the intricate landscape of environmental justice, offering deep insights into the complex interplay of social, economic, and geographical factors. Whether you're passionate about environmental issues, social justice, or simply curious about the real-world impact of academic research, this episode is a must-listen.

Music: Season 3 music is provided by Susanna Velarde Covarrubias.

Article's Reference: Sicotte, Diane. “Dealing in Toxins on the Wrong Side of the Tracks: Lessons from a Hazardous Waste Controversy in Phoenix.” Social Science Quarterly 89, no. 5 (2008): 1136–52. http://www.jstor.org/stable/42956367.

Show Notes

In Episode 8 of the "South Phoenix Oral History Project," Ele explores a thought-provoking article titled "Dealing in Toxins on the Wrong Side of the Tracks" by Diane Sicotte. This compelling piece delves into the contentious expansion of a hazardous waste facility within a marginalized neighborhood in Phoenix, offering profound insights into the unforeseen consequences of locating such facilities in vulnerable communities.

Ele dissects the article's content, summarizing the key findings and arguments. Sicotte's research unveils a troubling pattern of environmental injustice, where the siting of hazardous facilities in South Central Phoenix, a predominantly poor and minority neighborhood, has perpetuated a cycle of poverty, pollution, and drug-related crime.

Sicotte's methodology, which includes participant observation, document analysis, Census data, GIS mapping, and interviews, provides a comprehensive understanding of the complex issues at play. Residents of South Central Phoenix contend that the siting, permitting process, and subsequent expansion of the hazardous waste facility, along with the surge in drug-related crimes, are all manifestations of environmental racism.

Ele guides listeners through the critical concepts of distributive and participative injustice, shedding light on how the expansion of the facility exacerbated environmental disparities in Phoenix. The intertwining of hazardous waste and drug-related crime presents a compelling case for a holistic approach to understanding environmental justice.

But that's not all. Summer steps in to expand the discussion by exploring the geographical boundaries of South Phoenix as discussed by the author. This adds an essential layer of context to Sicotte's research, helping us comprehend the spatial dynamics of environmental injustice in this vibrant community.

Join Ele and Summer as they navigate the intricate landscape of environmental justice, offering deep insights into the complex interplay of social, economic, and geographical factors. Whether you're passionate about environmental issues, social justice, or simply curious about the real-world impact of academic research, this episode is a must-listen.

Music: Season 3 music is provided by Susanna Velarde Covarrubias.

Article's Reference: Sicotte, Diane. “Dealing in Toxins on the Wrong Side of the Tracks: Lessons from a Hazardous Waste Controversy in Phoenix.” Social Science Quarterly 89, no. 5 (2008): 1136–52. http://www.jstor.org/stable/42956367.