Kimberly Terrell resigned as director of Tulane's Environmental Law Clinic following a gag order from law school administrators prohibiting community engagement regarding environmental concerns. The clinic represents residents in 'Cancer Alley,' where pollution from nearby industries has led to severe health impacts. Despite significant research highlighting these issues, the administration, led by Dean Marcilynn Burke, responded to external pressures from officials and donors, fearing it could jeopardize redevelopment projects in New Orleans. This led to a conflict between academic integrity and institutional relationships with powerful stakeholders.
"We are deeply concerned about the potential impacts on our community and the legacy we leave for future generations, but we also recognize the complexities of navigating relationships with local government and industry.”
"For years, our research has provided crucial insights into the environmental health crises impacting marginalized communities, yet now we find ourselves facing obstacles imposed by our own institution.”
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