Uploaded January 2026 | Updated September 2026, 1 week ago
Tensions over the representation of reproductive health data in Canada’s Chemical Valley emerged when Aamjiwnaang First Nation members expressed concern about a skewed birth ratio in their community. From an interpretive policy analysis lens, this presentation addresses the discursive policy challenges faced by those who are most affected by the toxic policy assemblage of enduring pollution exposure. In response to the research question: how can the voices and lived-experiences of those living in pollution hotspots like Chemical Valley contribute to the theory and practice of environmental justice, the book Everyday Exposure draws upon findings from extensive field-work in Lambton County, including participant observation at townhall meetings and in-depth interviews. Findings highlight four discursive challenges: a struggle to define scientific expertise, the politics of scale, an overemphasis on lifestyle blame, and jurisdictional ambiguity. The book concludes with strategies for improved environmental justice and lessons learned for policy justice in Canada and beyond.
Tensions over the representation of reproductive health data in Canada’s Chemical Valley emerged when Aamjiwnaang First Nation members expressed concern about a skewed birth ratio in their community. From an interpretive policy analysis lens, this presentation addresses the discursive policy challenges faced by those who are most affected by the toxic policy assemblage of enduring pollution exposure. In response to the research question: how can the voices and lived-experiences of those living in pollution hotspots like Chemical Valley contribute to the theory and practice of environmental justice, the book Everyday Exposure draws upon findings from extensive field-work in Lambton County, including participant observation at townhall meetings and in-depth interviews. Findings highlight four discursive challenges: a struggle to define scientific expertise, the politics of scale, an overemphasis on lifestyle blame, and jurisdictional ambiguity. The book concludes with strategies for improved environmental justice and lessons learned for policy justice in Canada and beyond.
