Ep 12. Environmental Justice in Mossville; Payday Lenders

In season 18 episode 12 of Religion & Ethics NewsWeekly, viewers are taken on a journey to explore the pressing issues of environmental justice in Mossville, Louisiana, and the predatory practices of payday lending companies.

The first segment of the episode focuses on Mossville, a historic African American community that faces threats from pollution generated by the nearby petrochemical industry. Residents have been living alongside these plants for decades, and many have suffered from serious health problems linked to exposure to toxic chemicals. The program examines the struggle of a local grassroots group, Mossville Environmental Action Now (MEAN), to protect the health and wellbeing of their community and secure reparations for harms done. Members of MEAN share their stories of loss and resilience, highlighting the importance of fighting for environmental justice in marginalized communities.

The second segment of the show delves into the widespread problem of predatory lending practices that target low-income individuals and communities of color. Payday lending companies offer short-term loans with high interest rates and fees, trapping borrowers in cycles of debt that are difficult to escape. The episode features interviews with advocates who are working to expose the harmful effects of payday loans and push for stronger regulations to protect vulnerable consumers. It also includes a profile of a Tennessee pastor who launched a unique initiative to help his congregation and others break free from payday loan debt through financial education and support.

Throughout the show, viewers are invited to reflect on the ethical dimensions of these complex issues, and to consider how religious communities can contribute to efforts to create more just and sustainable societies. The program features commentary from a range of experts and religious leaders who offer insights on the role of faith in promoting environmental stewardship and economic justice.

As a whole, this episode of Religion & Ethics NewsWeekly provides a powerful look at the challenges facing marginalized communities in the United States, and the ways in which individuals and groups are fighting back against injustice. It is a thought-provoking and inspiring exploration of the vital intersection between religion, ethics, and social activism.