The Los Angeles Unified School District Board of Education approved a resolution on June 4 in support of Assembly Constitutional Amendment 16, known as the Green Amendment. The resolution, authored by Board Member Rocío Rivas and co-sponsored by all other board members, calls upon state legislators to pass ACA 16 and place the Green Amendment on the 2024 ballot.

The Green Amendment would amend the California Constitution to guarantee every resident the right to clean air and water, a stable climate and a healthy environment. Recognizing the disproportionate impact of environmental injustices on communities of color and lowincome communities, the Green Amendment is a crucial step towards achieving environmental justice and equity.

LAUSD serves a diverse student population, many of whom live in communities overburdened by pollution and environmental hazards. By passing the resolution, the board of education demonstrated its commitment to protecting the health and well-being of students, staff and the community.

“The district’s unwavering commitment to environmental stewardship and the well-being of our students is embodied in the resolution supporting ACA 16, the Green Amendment. By advocating for the constitutional right to a clean and healthy environment, we are not only safeguarding our natural resources but also ensuring a brighter, more sustainable future for generations to come,” Rivas said. “This resolution reflects the values of our communities and aligns with our ongoing efforts to create green spaces, promote sustainability and educate our youth about the importance of environmental conservation.”

“We have the fundamental right to live but apparently we do not have the fundamental right to live well,” said Scott M. Schmerelson, board vice president. “It is sad to know that some of our students are drinking tainted water at home, living next to hazardous chemicals due to their zip code or live in highly polluted areas. I hope the state of California does the right thing and begins the process to ensure all Californians have the right to clean air and clean water in their neighborhoods.”

For information, visit lausd.org.