Clinton SC, September 23, 2025
News Summary
The Environmental Justice Community Action Network (EJCAN) celebrated its fifth anniversary with a banquet in Clinton, NC. The event featured speeches from leaders in environmental advocacy and recognized the organization’s achievements. With around 225 attendees, the banquet highlighted the EJCAN’s mission to empower the community against environmental threats, ongoing projects, and future goals for community engagement.
Clinton, NC – The Environmental Justice Community Action Network (EJCAN) marked its fifth anniversary on September 20, 2023, with a celebratory banquet held at its new facility located at 200 Northeast Blvd., previously the National Guard Armory. The event attracted approximately 225 attendees who came together to recognize the organization’s efforts in environmental advocacy since its inception.
Sherri White-Williamson, the founder and executive director of EJCAN, took a moment during the gathering to express her gratitude for the community’s support and to reflect on the organization’s mission that began during the COVID pandemic in 2020. Her vision included empowering the residents of Sampson County and the surrounding areas to effectively combat environmental threats.
The evening was filled with significant acknowledgments. Jeffrey Robbins served as master of ceremonies, highlighting White-Williamson’s successful efforts in securing the new facility in a brief six-month span. Allie Sheffield, EJCAN’s Board Chair, applauded White-Williamson by referring to her as “an extraordinary leader.” Additionally, Phillip Bell from the Coharie led a land acknowledgment ceremony, honoring the historical importance of the land to American Indian communities.
The banquet featured a keynote address from Harold Mitchell, founder of the ReGenesis Institute in Spartanburg, South Carolina. He shared personal anecdotes concerning environmental injustices and stressed the importance of community mobilization for future needs. Quentin Pair, a retired U.S. Department of Justice official, recognized the ongoing contributions and support from the community that have been critical to EJCAN’s achievements.
EJCAN has made strides since its formation by addressing the unique needs of the Snow Hill community, including securing a consent agreement aimed at enhancing local living conditions. Ongoing projects currently focus on water testing, installing air monitors, and collaborating with local schools on health and environmental initiatives. White-Williamson expressed a goal to engage younger generations in environmental advocacy to ensure the continuity of EJCAN’s mission.
The organization is not only committed to community empowerment but is also in the process of renovating its new facility, which will eventually serve as a meeting space for community events and provide resources for various environmental projects. EJCAN has partnered with students from UNC Chapel Hill and Duke University to seek research support for its initiatives.
The organization’s water testing efforts have revealed concerning levels of contamination in local wells and water bodies, prompting a greater need for environmental action. Although the plan to implement a compost program with area schools was deemed too complex at the moment, future initiatives are being developed to enhance community environmental health.
Alongside the discussions and announcements, the evening also included a performance by national recording artist Gerald Hinton, making for a memorable celebration of EJCAN’s achievements and future aspirations.
FAQ
What was celebrated at EJCAN’s anniversary event?
EJCAN celebrated its fifth anniversary on September 20, 2023, at their new facility located at 200 Northeast Blvd., formerly the National Guard Armory, with approximately 225 attendees.
Who is the founder of EJCAN?
Sherri White-Williamson is the founder and executive director of EJCAN.
What are some projects currently undertaken by EJCAN?
EJCAN’s ongoing projects include water testing, installing air monitors, and working with local schools on health and environmental initiatives.
What is the purpose of the new facility?
The new facility is intended to be a meeting space for the community and to host various community events while providing resources for environmental projects.
Key Features of EJCAN’s Anniversary Celebration
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Event Date | September 20, 2023 |
| Location | 200 Northeast Blvd., Clinton, NC |
| Attendees | 225 people |
| Founder | Sherri White-Williamson |
| Keynote Speaker | Harold Mitchell |
| Master of Ceremonies | Jeffrey Robbins |
| Special Performer | Gerald Hinton |
| Main Focus | Environmental advocacy and community empowerment |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- Clinton NC: Environmental Justice for All
- Wikipedia: Environmental Justice
- Clinton NC: EJCAN Holds Open House for New Facility
- Google Search: Environmental Advocacy
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Environmental Health
Author: STAFF HERE CLINTON
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