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Hazel M. Johnson

Hazel M. Johnson was an influential environmental activist from Chicago who dedicated her life to fighting pollution and environmental injustice in underserved communities. Recognized as the "mother of environmental justice," she exposed how marginalized neighborhoods disproportionately suffered from industrial waste and hazardous conditions. Her efforts helped raise awareness about environmental health disparities and inspired policies to protect vulnerable populations. Johnson’s work highlighted the importance of community involvement in environmental decision-making, making her a key figure in the movement advocating for fairness and health equity in environmental issues.