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When CTLCV and the CTLCV Education Fund moved offices in 2024, it was only a few miles down the road, but settling into the heart of downtown Hartford reminded us how important community is to our work. As a statewide organization, we don’t often get to focus on one small local place.
For Earth Day, our team decided to give back to our neighborhood with a litter cleanup at the skatepark behind our office. During that time, we noticed that Wexford Park, just across the street, could use a little attention too. CTLCV Education Fund applied for funding to give Wexford Park a refresh with a new pollinator garden. The Hartford Foundation for Public Giving & the City of Hartford supported the idea and funded the project through the Love Your Block grant program. As we worked with local experts on native plants and garden design, we learned that the City of Hartford was also planning a project to move a monument from the skatepark to Wexford Park. You can read more about that in this Hartford Courant article. With help from the City of Hartford & the non-profit KNOX in preparing the site, CTLCV staff planted several thousand native plants, from grasses to flowering perennials. “It was rewarding to see the space take shape,” said CTLCV President, Mike Urgo. “The garden adds some life and color to the park, and it’s nice to know we could play a small part in improving our neighborhood.”
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In September, CTLCV Staff attended YIMBYtown 2025 conference in New Haven, CT. This 3-day event is the largest pro-homes conference in the nation. Below is CTLCV staff member Lilliana Sarju's reflection from the event.
"Attending YIMBYtown 2025 was a great experience for CTLCV. Over the course of the sessions, keynotes, and breakouts, I saw firsthand how strongly housing policy, zoning reform, climate planning, and social equity are interwoven. Additionally, being one of the few environmental nonprofits with a table at the event meant we were able to have productive and nuanced conversations with many attendees. The lineup was inspiring: discussions ranged from equitable zoning, community land trusts, transportation oriented development, housing finance innovations, to climate resilience in growth strategies. There were panels on how different states are updating regulatory frameworks to allow more missing middle housing, sessions on how to use incentive zoning and form-based codes to encourage density without sacrificing environmental goals, and deep dives into the tradeoffs between development and preserving ecological systems. What I learned there enriched my understanding of how environmental protections must be baked into housing policy, rather than treated as an afterthought. Having CTLCV at YIMBYtown signaled that environmental justice belongs in housing justice conversations. The event gave us new tools, new connections, and renewed clarity on how to push our state toward smarter growth. I came home with fresh ideas to bring to our advocacy around zoning reform, green building standards, and aligning climate resilience with housing expansion." Want to learn more about affordable housing & the environment? Check out this explainer. Invasive species outcompete native species for resources. This damages Connecticut’s biodiversity and habitat health. One particularly destructive invasive is called Hydrilla. Originating from Asia, Hydrilla is an aquatic invasive that has been ravaging Connecticut’s freshwater ecosystems since 2016.
Hydrilla can grow up to an astounding one inch per day leading to dense mats up to several feet long. Not only does the plant grow with rapid speed but its ability to spread quickly exacerbates the problem. Hydrilla spreads not only through seeds, but also root buds (turions and tubers), and plant fragments, making it extremely hard to control. Fragments travel easily on boats, currents, and fishing gear, helping it spread quickly and widely. Beyond crowding out native species, Hydrilla presence leads to:
Clearly, Hydrilla is a huge problem for Connecticut’s wildlife, rivers and people. The question is, how to stop and reverse its damage? One proposed method for managing invasive Hydrilla is manual removal. A recently developed tool, the Weedoo Environmental Work Boat, can cut Hydrilla up to five feet below the surface. While this solution is chemical-free, it can’t keep up with Hydrilla’s rapid growth and doesn’t address its ability to reproduce through underground tubers. This summer, the Army Corps of Engineers has begun an experimental project to reduce the Hydrilla decimating Connecticut river habitats. After extensive research and project preparation, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers selected a targeted herbicide treatment using diquat dibromide as the most effective solution. Before implementation, they studied various herbicides over several years, including how chemicals would move through the river system. Using dye tests, they identified the most effective treatment zones and minimized the amount of herbicide needed. The Corps also held three public meetings in riverfront towns to share findings and gather feedback prior to project implementation. After just a month, the project has shown promising results: Hydrilla levels have decreased, and native aquatic plants are rebounding. Diquat isn’t without its drawbacks, and must be managed appropriately. If too much is sprayed in a body of water, it can lead to lower oxygen levels due to the decomposing vegetation, a risk to fish and aquatic organisms. However, the Army Corps is applying the herbicide in tightly controlled amounts to avoid this outcome. Diquat doesn’t break down easily in sediment, but it also doesn’t leach into groundwater, so there’s little risk to drinking water. A trace contaminant, ethylene dibromide or EBD, is a known carcinogen, which can sound alarming. But it exists only in extremely small quantities and naturally breaks down over time. While these risks may seem concerning at first, experts have determined that when used responsibly, the impact on human health is minimal and the benefits to restoring the river’s ecosystem are substantial. You may have seen news headlines recently in regards to this project after misinformation was circulated by a CT based rapper on social media. After seeing a video of a lake in the aftermath of spraying diquat on social media, Chris Webby took an interest in the chemical and did some research of his own. While acknowledging that he is not an expert on Hydrilla or the methods of its removal, he used his large fanbase to get a petition signed by 14,868 people and urged his followers to call legislators and the project leaders demanding they stop spraying the chemical. Meanwhile, experts have spoken out against Webby’s misinformation campaign, citing there are no viable alternatives to ridding Connecticut of Hydrilla. Alicea Charamut, Executive Director of the Rivers Alliance of Connecticut and a public advocate who worked with the Army Corps of Engineers on how best to combat Hydrilla, says they considered using benthic mats to prevent the plant from growing upward but it proved to be impractical as the whole river would have to be covered with these mats. Additionally, the mats would also smother native plants, defeating the purpose of the treatment. In closing, it’s completely fair to ask questions and feel uneasy about chemical treatments in natural spaces. A few weeks ago, our staff attended a press conference organized by Connecticut Senator Blumenthal, and we listened closely to the experts, advocates, and officials working on this issue. We’ve done our best to dig into the facts and understand why experts landed on this approach, even with its trade-offs. There’s no perfect solution, but right now, diquat seems to be the most effective way to stop Hydrilla’s decimation of our river ecosystems. If you’d like to learn more or hear directly from those involved, we recommend reading this CT Mirror article. This week, we pause to honor Juneteenth, a day of reflection, celebration, and continued commitment to justice.
Juneteenth commemorates June 19, 1865, when Union troops arrived in Galveston, Texas, and announced that all enslaved people were free—more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation was signed. It marks the effective end of slavery in the United States and has become a powerful symbol of Black freedom and resilience. Juneteenth reminds us that freedom is not a finish line. It is a responsibility. Even today we witness horrifying acts of hate, violence, and attacks on basic rights. This moment calls on all of us to listen, to learn from experiences different than our own, and to grow in empathy. The more we open ourselves to understanding, the stronger we become in standing against injustice and building a future rooted in dignity, safety, and true equality for everyone." Documentary: Juneteenth: Faith & Freedom (PBS) A black man is troubled by the legacy of American slavery and the misuse of Christianity to justify it. He travels throughout Texas and discovers how the Juneteenth holiday reveals a resilient hope that empowered the formerly enslaved and their descendants to fight for freedom in an often unjust society. Movie Recommendations:
Book Recommendations: On Juneteenth by Annette Gordon-Reed A blend of personal memoir and historical insight on the significance of Juneteenth from a Pulitzer Prize–winning historian. Juneteenth by Ralph Ellison A powerful, unfinished novel exploring race, memory, and identity through the bond between a Black preacher and a white senator. How the Word Is Passed by Clint Smith A moving exploration of how America remembers (and misremembers) its history of slavery, told through visits to historic sites. Four Hundred Souls edited by Ibram X. Kendi & Keisha N. Blain Ninety Black writers reflect on 400 years of African American history in short, accessible chapters. The Warmth of Other Suns by Isabel Wilkerson Chronicles the Great Migration of Black Americans from the South to the North and West in search of freedom. The Amistad Rebellion by Marcus Rediker This book tells the powerful story of the 1839 revolt aboard the Spanish slave ship Amistad from the perspective of the enslaved Africans who fought for their freedom. This compelling narrative traces their journey from Sierra Leone to Connecticut and the landmark legal battle that secured their emancipation, offering a fresh and vivid account of resilience and justice. Riparian Buffers are natural vegetated areas along rivers and streams that help reduce flooding, improve water quality, and stabilize stream banks. Despite their proven benefits, Connecticut is the only state in New England that has not explicitly protected these buffers.
HB 7174 (2025) aims to change that by recognizing riparian buffers as a cost-effective, natural solution for: Flood prevention – Protects communities from extreme weather events like last summer’s devastating Naugatuck Valley floods. Cleaner water – Filters pollutants before they reach our rivers and drinking water sources. Smart land use – Balances property rights with environmental protection for long-term sustainability. Natural buffers offer high-impact benefits at little to no cost, making them one of the most efficient tools for safeguarding Connecticut’s water and communities. Learn More: CTLCV Briefing Paper CT River Joint Commissions Fact Sheets Want to make a difference but not sure where to start? Submitting testimony is one of the most powerful ways to have your voice heard in the legislative process and it’s easier than you think. Whether you are an expert or just passionate about the issue, your perspective matters.
What Is Testimony and Why Is It Important? Think of testimony as the most direct way of communicating with your legislators. The 2025 legislative session is running right now (from January 8th to June 4th), and it is time to make a difference. Lawmakers are actively discussing bills that will impact you & your community. Whether you are sharing your personal stories or providing your expertise for a cause you care about, testimony is one of the most effective ways to advocate for change. The best part? They actually want to hear from you! Here are some ways that testimony plays an important role in the legislative process:
How to Know When & What to Testify On There are several ways to stay on track of legislation that affects you & your interests. First, keep up with Connecticut state government news. Many newspapers have state politics specific online newsletters that you can sign up for. Second, we recommend signing up for email newsletters of organizations that do legislative work around issues you care about. For example, the ACLU of CT advocates for civil rights & other groups advocate for more specific issues, like local watersheds. These groups will inform you when there is the opportunity to testify on bills they are tracking. Secondly, you can search the CGA website for bills related to subjects you search. Each bill has a webpage that includes current text, up-to-date actions & more. You can also “save” bills on the CGA website to reference later & track throughout the session. You can submit testimony on a bill once it is scheduled for a Committee Public Hearing. You may also submit testimony after the public hearing date has passed or send your testimony directly to your legislator. Note: To track bills on the CGA website, you will have to sign-up to be a CGA Bill Tracking User. Register here. We recommend backing up your list to your desktop regularly. Written vs. Oral Testimony There are two main mediums of testimony submissions: Written and Oral. Written Testimony: The best part about written testimony is that anyone can do it. You don’t need special credentials, just share your story and why the issue matters to you. This is your opportunity to connect a piece of legislation to your personal life. There’s no need to include facts & figures (though they are always welcome!). What really moves legislators is hearing your authentic experience. Remember: you are the expert of your own story! Quick Tips:
Ready to submit written testimony? Here's How:
Oral (Spoken) Testimony Oral Testimony is very similar to written testimony. You will still submit your remarks in writing, but you will be able to speak in front of the Committee legislators of which your bill is being considered. Oral testimony can be delivered on Zoom or in person. Speaker order is listed the day before the hearing by 6 p.m. You must sign up to register for oral testimony by 3 p.m. the day before the hearing. If you miss these deadlines, don’t worry, you can still submit written testimony on the issue. The Process: Once you register to testify, you’ll be placed on the speaker order list. When your number is called, you’ll have three minutes to summarize your written testimony. We recommend NOT repeating exactly what you wrote. This is your chance to really connect with the committee, tell your story and make your point. Please note that public hearings can sometimes take a really long time to get to your speaker number. If you choose to testify via Zoom, you will be able to spend the time of your day more effectively. Ready to Sign-Up for Oral Testimony? Here’s how:
Please note that the most up to date information about the public testimony process can be found on the CGA website. We recommend reading all instructions carefully & checking the Bulletin for any announcements. Black history is American history, and it’s also a history of resilience in the face of environmental injustice. From the fight for clean air and water to the struggle against toxic pollution in Black communities, the push for environmental justice is deeply tied to racial justice. This Black History Month, we recognize the ongoing fight for a healthier, more just world for all.
Denise Lynn Nappier A proud Connecticut native, Denise Lynn Nappier made history as the first African American woman elected to statewide office in Connecticut and the first Black woman in the nation to serve as a state treasurer. Serving from 1999 to 2019, she championed responsible investment practices, corporate governance reforms, and initiatives that directly benefited Connecticut’s working families and underrepresented communities. Her leadership not only transformed state policies but also set a precedent for inclusive governance across Connecticut.
James Mars Born into slavery in Connecticut in the late 18th century, James Mars overcame his early hardships to become a leading abolitionist and chronicler of his experiences. His memoir, Life of James Mars, A Slave Born and Sold in Connecticut, offers a rare firsthand account of Northern slavery and resistance. By educating local communities and advocating for African American rights, Mars helped shape the historical narrative of Connecticut’s fight for freedom and equality. Ruth Alice Lucas Raised in Connecticut, Ruth Alice Lucas became the first African American woman to achieve the rank of full colonel in the U.S. Air Force. Her groundbreaking career inspired many within Connecticut’s military and broader communities. Beyond her service, Lucas has been celebrated locally for breaking barriers in a traditionally male-dominated field and for serving as a role model to young Connecticut residents aspiring to careers in public service and leadership. Ann Lane Petry A celebrated writer with deep Connecticut ties, Ann Lane Petry became the first African American woman to sell over a million copies of a novel. While her work, notably The Street (1946), addressed issues of racism, gender, and economic inequality across America, her insights were also informed by her experiences in Connecticut. Petry’s literary success and social commentary have left an enduring impact on Connecticut’s cultural and intellectual landscape, inspiring local writers and activists alike. Ebenezer Bassett A native of Connecticut, Ebenezer Bassett broke new ground as the first African American diplomat in U.S. history when he was appointed ambassador to Haiti in 1869. His early work as an educator and abolitionist was deeply rooted in his commitment to improving life in Connecticut. Bassett’s legacy in Connecticut is remembered for his efforts to promote racial justice and for paving the way for future generations of Black leaders in both diplomacy and education. Constance Baker Motley Born in New Haven, Connecticut, Constance Baker Motley became a pioneering civil rights lawyer and judge. She played a central role in landmark desegregation cases, including her influential work on Brown v. Board of Education. Her Connecticut upbringing and early legal experiences in the state fueled her determination to fight inequality. Motley’s legacy continues to inspire countless Connecticut residents pursuing careers in law and public service, and her impact is celebrated both locally and nationally. John "Schoolboy" Taylor A Hartford native, John "Schoolboy" Taylor was a standout baseball player and the first African American to break into the Ivy League sports scene. His athletic achievements opened doors for Black athletes in Connecticut during an era marked by segregation and exclusion. Taylor’s legacy is celebrated in local sports history, and he remains an inspirational figure for young athletes striving for excellence in Connecticut’s competitive sports arenas. Charles Ethan Porter Born in Hartford, Connecticut, Charles Ethan Porter was one of the few African American painters of the 19th century to gain recognition during his lifetime. Specializing in still-life and landscape paintings, Porter not only overcame racial barriers in the art world but also captured the essence of Connecticut’s natural beauty and everyday life in his work. His contributions to the arts continue to be honored in local museums and galleries, marking him as a significant figure in Connecticut’s cultural history. Gwen Reed A lifelong resident of Connecticut, Gwen Reed was a passionate community activist, actress, and educator who dedicated herself to advancing literacy and early childhood education in the state. Through her work in local theater and community programs, Reed brought African American stories and voices to the forefront in Connecticut’s cultural scene. Her enduring commitment to education and the arts has left a lasting impact on the state’s communities. Edward Bouchet Edward Bouchet, a Connecticut native, became the first African American to earn a Ph.D. in the United States when he completed his doctorate in physics at Yale University in New Haven in 1876. Despite facing significant racial barriers, Bouchet’s career in academia and his dedication to teaching inspired generations of Black scholars within Connecticut. His pioneering achievements in science and education continue to influence the state’s academic community and serve as a beacon of excellence. |
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