EJ Freedom School Lobby Day
Click Here to view presentation slide deck.
Purpose: We see how clean energy transit, such as electric buses, bikes, and public transit powered by renewable energy, directly supports the EJ Freedom School’s goals. Clean transit reduces greenhouse gas emissions and air pollution, improving the health of communities disproportionately affected by poor air quality. EJ Students will also be able to apply this advocacy to their climate action plans. This is where we hope the partnership can help the students for CTU’s Lobby Day.
By highlighting equitable access to sustainable transit, the program can empower youth to advocate for cleaner, healthier, and more just transportation systems in their schools and neighborhoods, aligning with the Freedom School’s mission of advancing environmental justice and resilience.
Important Files
>> Permission Slip
>> Excusal Letter
>> Action Plan Template
Environmental Action Plans
Goals:
- Describe how transportation affects climate change, air quality, and community health, especially in underserved neighborhoods.
- Promote policies and projects such as electric school buses, safe walking/biking routes, and affordable public transit access for youth.
- Explain how transportation contributes to greenhouse gas emissions and local air pollution.
- Describe the health and equity benefits of clean transit (e.g., reduced asthma rates, better access for underserved neighborhoods).
- Share stories of how lack of accessible transit impacts students and families in their communities.
Logistics:
Before Lobby Day
- Permission Slip
- Action Plan Speaking Template
- Email to Mike, michaelmoriarty@ctuf.org
Lobby Day, October 29, 2025
- Arrive at CTU Center by 6:30 am
- Drop Off at 6:00 pm at CTU Center,
- 1901 W. Carroll Ave, Chicago IL 60612
The Environmental Justice (EJ) Freedom School is a two-week educational-experiential program offered to high school students in the Chicagoland area to develop local school climate action plans. The EJ Freedom School program will equip participants with the skills and tools to articulate, advocate, and develop climate adaptation and mitigation plans. Each summer, the program educates thirty 9-12 grade youth about the long-term impacts of ecological contamination and provides them with the skills to organize and advocate groups of people for a clean and healthy world for all while prioritizing underserved communities.
EJ Freedom School Partners
