Theory and action: an exploration of civically engaged research, environmental justice, and political theories of democracy

The study of democratization processes undergoes constant revitalization within the discipline. CER enables the inclusion of diverse voices, experiences, frameworks, and questions which might challenge conventional explanations. This article explores how the Environmental Justice (EJ) movement contributes to understanding democracy, emphasizing the role of engaged research. It delves into the adoption and application of the Jemez Principles for Democratic Organizing by EJ groups, examining their potential relevance to CER in political science. The case of Uprose, a grassroots EJ organization in Sunset Park, Brooklyn, NY, illustrates how it holds government and larger environmental organizations accountable, ensuring democratic participation is not compromised by their actions. Through these examples, the article highlights the transformative potential of CER for enriching political science with insights from real-world civic engagement.