Empowering Communities. Inspiring Change. Building a Sustainable Future.

DANIEL BLACKMAN

POSITIVE CHANGE

Welcome to Daniel Blackman’s official website, where passion meets action in the pursuit of a brighter future. Get to know Daniel’s inspiring journey and his relentless dedication to creating economic opportunities, equitable education, and a healthy environment for marginalized communities. Discover the driving force behind his commitment to building resilient communities that thrive for all.

About Daniel

Media: Live and In Action

Daniel Blackman delivered the opening for a post-screening discussion for  Descendent a documentary on descendants of the enslaved Africans on an illegal ship that arrived in Alabama in 1860 seeking justice and healing when the craft’s remains are discovered.

Explore a treasure trove of approved headshots, action shots, captivating bios, and videos of Daniel’s previous speeches. Access valuable resources to amplify your message and share in the journey of progress.

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Daniel Blackman discusses the path forward to building a just transition to net zero carbon emissions alongside a host of other panelist in Rational Middle’s “Net Zero: A Just Transition”.

Daniel’s Take

Immerse yourself in Daniel’s posts that tackle critical topics including environmental justice, improving government and community relations, diversity in the environmental movement, driving social change through collaboration, civil rights, social equity, and finding common ground. Be inspired by his powerful perspectives and join the conversation.

Sep 11, 2023 / Government and Community Relations

Peace, Reconciliation, and Unity: An Open Letter to the Families, First Responders, and Survivors of 9/11

On this solemn day, we pause to remember and honor the tragic events that unfolded on September 11, 2001. It has been more than two decades since that fateful day, but the memories of the lives lost and the indomitable spirit of those who stood tall in the face of adversity continue to resonate with us. With heavy hearts and deep gratitude, we write this open letter to express our profound thanks and to reflect on the enduring journey towards reconciliation.

Sep 4, 2023 / Social Equity

Working Hard, Staying Poor: Unveiling America’s Labor Day Realities

On Labor Day, as many Americans revel in a well-deserved respite from their daily toils, it's essential to cast a compassionate eye upon the millions of low-wage American workers who find themselves laboring while others celebrate. These individuals constitute the backbone of our economy, and their invaluable contributions demand recognition and fair compensation. Labor Day, with its roots in the labor movement's fight for basic workplace rights, serves as a poignant reminder of the ongoing struggle for workers' dignity. Poverty may take different forms in the United States compared to developing nations, but injustice remains a universal constant. The plight of working hard but staying poor is an injustice we must collectively address. Let us extend our gratitude to America's workforce for their unwavering dedication and resilience, recognizing that they deserve acknowledgment and equitable treatment not only on Labor Day but every day of the year.

Aug 29, 2023 / Civil Rights, Social Equity

Part 2 of 2 – Where do we go from Here: Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Happiness, in a New American Century

As we enter a new American century, the ideals of "Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Happiness" take on a fresh significance, guiding us in creating a future rooted in justice, equality, and human flourishing. "Life" urges us to address healthcare and environmental disparities, ensuring every individual's dignity. "Liberty" extends beyond freedom from oppression to dismantling systemic racism. "The Pursuit of Happiness" calls for inclusive spaces and economic opportunities. In a complex era, these principles remain steadfast, urging us to advocate for justice globally. Let's remember that these words, born from history, drive us to a future where everyone can thrive.

Aug 28, 2023 / Civil Rights, Social Equity

Part 1 of 2 – 60 Years since the March on Washington: Measuring our Moral Compass

Reflecting on the 60th anniversary of Martin Luther King Jr.'s "I Have a Dream" speech, we confront the progress and challenges of racial equality, environmental justice, and social equity. King's vision of unity still resonates as we navigate economic disparities, healthcare injustices, and threats to voting rights. This anniversary isn't just a nod to history; it's a call to fight present inequalities. We must address the interconnected struggles faced by marginalized groups and advocate for a just future. As we gather at the Lincoln Memorial, let's remember collective power and commit to realizing King's dream of equality and justice for all.

Aug 28, 2023 / Environmental Justice

Part 2 of 2 – From the Lower 9th Ward to Maui: Fighting Forward and Empowering Displaced Communities

In the aftermath of major storms and wildfires, the threat of disaster capitalism and climate gentrification looms large, exploiting the vulnerabilities of affected communities. From Hurricanes Katrina and Rita to recent fires in Maui, these injustices persist. In this second part of our two part series we cover methods to counteract them. By educating themselves and others, building strong networks, demanding accountability, advocating for fair rebuilding, pushing for protective legislation, discussing climate reparations, and empowering through knowledge, we can create a future where justice and resilience prevail over exploitation. It is time to rewrite the narrative and build a world that truly cares for all its people, regardless of challenges faced.

Aug 27, 2023 / Environmental Justice

Part 1 Of 2 – From the Lower 9th Ward to Maui: Disaster Capitalism, Displacement, and the Exploitation of Vulnerable Communities

When big storms and fires hit, some people try to profit from the damage. This is called disaster capitalism. In this first part of a two part series we will take a look at what happens after major storms like Hurricanes Katrina and Rita, and a fire in Maui. We will also talk about climate gentrification, which is when people can not afford to live in safe areas anymore. It is crucial that when places are rebuilt, they help the folks who live there and keep their homes secure. We should work together to stop disaster capitalism and make sure everyone can recover fairly from these big disasters.

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Book Daniel Blackman for an Unforgettable Speaking Experience

Bring the inspiring voice of Daniel Blackman, renowned environmentalist, and civil rights activist to your next event. Engage your audience with his powerful stories of advocating for social justice, environmental protection, and creating equitable opportunities for marginalized communities.

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DANIEL BLACKMAN IN THE PRESS

Stay Informed and Inspired

Immerse yourself in Daniel’s posts that tackle critical topics including environmental justice, improving government and community relations, diversity in the environmental movement, driving social change through collaboration, civil rights, social equity, and finding common ground. Be inspired by his powerful perspectives and join the conversation.

Daniel hosts a fireside chat with Martha Revelo at the Latino Leaders Summit

Daniel Blackman speaks with Martha Revelo about leadership, career development, and youth engagement at the GALEO Latino Leaders Summit on October 14, 2023. Martha Revelo is the Associate Director for Government Relations for Associations County Commissioners in Georgia (ACCG) and one of the recipients of the 50 most Influential Latinos in Georgia 2023. The Latino Leaders Summit is GALEO's annual leadership summit that focuses on enhancing the skills and knowledge of Georgia's Latin community.

Events, Press
Oct 3, 2023

EPA’s Southeast Chief taking new agency role

“This role is part of the larger agency strategy to continue strengthening our institution and build an agency workforce which reflects the diversity of the communities we serve,” Marraccini said in an email. “This is a key priority of Mr. Blackman’s and he looks forward to strengthening our partnerships and recruiting an even more diverse EPA workforce.”

News, Press
May 22, 2023

Orangeburg County School District Receives $6.32 Million from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency

Orangeburg County School District in South Carolina has been awarded $6.32 million by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to replace existing school buses with zero-emission and low-emission models. As the EPA's Regional Administrator, Daniel Blackman played a crucial role in this initiative, which aims to transform America's school bus fleet and improve air quality and health for students in Orangeburg County and beyond.

Press, Press Releases
Oct 28, 2022

Press Conference: DeKalb Announces New WIFIA Loan

This video, aired live on DCTV (DeKalb County Television) Channel 23, captures a significant press conference where DeKalb County CEO Michael Thurmond and EPA Assistant Administrator Radhika Fox announce a groundbreaking $284 Million Water Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act (WIFIA) loan.

Press, Videos
May 24, 2022

President Biden appoints Daniel Blackman to lead Southeast United States

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Michael S. Regan announced that President Biden will appoint Daniel Blackman to become EPA’s Regional Administrator for Region 4. Blackman will lead the implementation of the Biden-Harris environmental agenda in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee and with 6 Tribes.

Awards and Recognition, Press
Nov 18, 2021
U.S. Secretary of Energy Rick Perry speaks during a press event at the construction site of Vogtle Units 3 and 4 at the Alvin W. Vogtle Electric Generating Plant on March 22, 2019 in Waynesboro, Ga.

THE OTHER RACE ON GEORGIA’S JANUARY BALLOT

WHEN GEORGIA VOTERS cast their ballots in the U.S. Senate runoffs, with Democrats Jon Ossoff and Raphael Warnock facing off against Republicans David Perdue and Kelly Loeffler, they’ll also be weighing in on another statewide contest that had no clear winner on November 3: public service commissioner.

Articles
Nov 23, 2020
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