WASHINGTON – The Environmental Working Group is deeply saddened by the death of David Baker, the second longest-serving member of its current board of directors.
In his role – a position he held for more than two decades – he provided wise counsel, principled leadership and a constant reminder that environmental protection is fundamentally about protecting people.
Baker was also a leader in the environmental justice movement. His unwavering commitment to equity, public health and community advocacy helped shape EWG.
As founder and executive director of Community Against Pollution, in Anniston, Ala., Baker dedicated his life to holding powerful polluters accountable. He fought for families whose communities had been burdened by toxic contamination.
His work became a model for grassroots environmental justice advocacy nationally and inspired generations of advocates to stand up for clean air, clean water and healthy communities.
“David never let us lose sight of who this work is really about,” said EWG President and co-founder Ken Cook. “He brought the voices of communities living with pollution into every board meeting and every conversation.
“His courage and wisdom made EWG a stronger organization and all of us better advocates,” Cook added.
Advocate for the unheard
Throughout his life, Baker was a fearless ally of people who too often went unheard.
His leadership in Anniston exposed the devastating legacy of the chemical giant Monsanto polluting the small community with PCB contamination from the company’s chemical plant there. His work helped bring environmental justice into the national conversation.
Baker understood that low-income communities and communities of color too often bear the greatest burden of pollution. He spent his life demanding accountability, transparency and justice.
“David was a force of nature – courageous, compassionate and deeply committed to doing what was right,” Cook said.
Beliefs that guided his life’s work
“He never sought the spotlight. He simply believed that people deserve clean air, clean water and a fair chance at a healthy life. That belief guided his life’s work and inspired everyone who had the privilege of knowing him,” Cook added.
Baker was a longtime member of the NAACP and the Coalition for Black Trade Unionists.
Baker earned a degree in labor management from Cornell University. He received an honorary doctorate from the Alabama Legislature, in 2003.
He was recognized by the Environmental Protection Agency with awards for outstanding leadership and contributions to the advancement of environmental justice.
His work was also featured in Dennis Love’s book, “My City Was Gone.”
“The Environmental Working Group extends its deepest condolences to David’s family and all who loved him. We are profoundly grateful for his decades of service, his friendship and the example he set for all of us,” said Cook.
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The Environmental Working Group is a nonprofit, non-partisan organization that empowers people to live healthier lives in a healthier environment. Through research, advocacy and unique education tools, EWG drives consumer choice and civic action. Visit www.ewg.org for more information.
