Please join us for a special guest lecture by "the father of environmental justice," Dr. Robert D. Bullard.

Join Dr. Robert Bullard, the father of environmental justice, for a transformative lecture titled Quest for Environmental Justice: The Challenge and Promise. With decades of pioneering work as a sociologist and author, Dr. Bullard will explore the roots of the environmental justice movement, its connection to faith, civil rights, and the policies that have shaped systemic inequities. As we mark the 10th anniversary of Laudato Si, Pope Francis’ call to care for our common home, this conversation takes on even greater urgency—challenging us to recognize environmental justice as a moral obligation and an act of solidarity with the most vulnerable.

Dr. Bullard's message goes beyond identifying barriers—it is one of resilience, action, and hope. He will inspire attendees to see how marrying research, data, and science with faith and community-driven action can create lasting change. In alignment with Seattle University’s deep commitment to sustainability and justice, this event offers a powerful opportunity to reflect on our collective responsibility and take meaningful steps to build a more just and equitable future.

Who Should Attend:

This lecture is ideal for anyone committed to justice, equity, and sustainability. It’s designed for community leaders, educators, students, faith-based organizations, activists, policymakers, and individuals passionate about creating a healthier, fairer world through collective action.

This is more than a lecture—it’s a call to action and a vision for change.

About Dr. Bullard

Robert D. Bullard is often described as the father of environmental justice. He is the former Dean of the Barbara Jordan-Mickey Leland School of Public Affairs at Texas Southern University 2011-2016. Professor Bullard currently is Distinguished Professor of Urban Planning and Environmental Policy and Director of the Bullard Center for Environmental and Climate Justice. Prior to coming to TSU he was founding Director of the Environmental Justice Resource Center at Clark Atlanta University. He received his Ph.D. degree from Iowa State University. He is an award-winning author of eighteen books that address sustainable development, environmental racism, urban land use, industrial facility siting, community reinvestment, housing, transportation, climate justice, disasters, emergency response, and community resilience, smart growth, and regional equity. He is co-founder of the HBCU Climate Change Consortium. Dr. Bullard is a proud U.S. Marine Corps veteran.