Dr. Henry Clark Plaza and Whitney Dotson Garden stand as lasting tributes to two visionary leaders whose work shaped the environmental justice movement and strengthened the North Richmond community. These spaces, envisioned as places of gathering, learning, and stewardship, will ensure that their legacies continue to inspire action.
Dr. Henry Clark Plaza recognizes his leadership in advocating for clean air, water, and a healthy community—rights he fought to make accessible to all, not privileges for a few. Long before the term environmental justice was coined, Dr. Clark was in the room shaping the movement, bringing people together to demand healthier environments. This plaza, designed as a future gathering space, will embody his commitment to collective action by hosting health fairs, educational events, and community convenings where people can learn, strategize, and build a stronger, healthier North Richmond.
Whitney Dotson Garden reflects his deep commitment to open space and environmental sovereignty. As the first Black man appointed to the East Bay Regional Parks District, Dotson worked tirelessly to ensure that historically disadvantaged communities, like North Richmond, had access to green spaces and clean watersheds. His influence on Urban Tilth’s Watersheds Program was profound—he served as an advisor to the team that designed the program’s structure, helping shape the approach to watershed restoration and environmental education as we know it today. His vision for community-led environmental advocacy remains an anchor for the program, guiding efforts to restore and protect local waterways. The garden, a future teaching space, will continue his legacy by offering opportunities for people to learn about native plants and ecosystems, fostering a connection to the land he spent his life protecting.
By creating these spaces, we are not only honoring the work of these two visionary leaders but also ensuring that their impact continues to grow, educating and empowering future generations in the fight for environmental and community health.
The Legacy of Dr. Henry Clark & Whitney Dotson
In North Richmond, the legacies of Dr. Henry Clark and Whitney Dotson are woven into the very fabric of the community—stories of resilience, justice, and an unwavering commitment to the land and its people. Their impact extends far beyond policy and activism; it lives on in the rhythms of the North Richmond Farm, in the hands of volunteers on MLK National Day of Service, and in every community gathering that seeks to uplift and empower. Their work is not just history—it is a call to action, reminding us that stewardship of the earth and justice for its people go hand in hand, shaping the way we grow, gather, and fight for a better future.
Dr. Henry Clark: A Champion of Environmental Justice
Dr. Henry Clark, a native of North Richmond, dedicated his life to empowering communities and advocating for environmental justice. His journey began at Peres and Verde Elementary schools before he embarked on a path of activism and education at San Francisco State University. Immersed in the Civil Rights Movement, the Black Power movement, and the Free South Africa movement, Dr. Clark’s passion for justice spanned continents.
Throughout his career, Dr. Clark served as the Executive Director of the West County Toxics Coalition, where he spearheaded initiatives like the disaster warning system following the General Chemical release in 1993. His efforts led to the establishment of the North Richmond Center for Health, a beacon of community resilience funded by a settlement with General Chemical. Dr. Clark also played a pivotal role in advocating for stricter emissions regulations for petroleum refineries, ensuring cleaner air for North Richmond residents.
“Environmental justice issues and civil rights issues are one and the same,” Dr. Clark asserted, reflecting his unwavering commitment to equality. His legacy extends through his decades of service on the Contra Costa Hazardous Material Commission and his instrumental role in forming the North Richmond Municipal Advisory Council, giving voice to his community’s concerns.
“I’m either standing for social justice and doing the right thing, or I’m not,” Dr. Clark affirmed. “There’s no in-between.”
Whitney Dotson: Guardian of North Richmond’s Shoreline
Whitney Dotson, a stalwart advocate born in Parchester Village, North Richmond, inherited his father’s legacy of environmental stewardship. Growing up near the San Pablo Bay shoreline, Dotson witnessed the threats posed by proposed developments like airports and industrial parks to the local marshlands. Determined to preserve this natural heritage, Dotson crafted a visionary plan that not only conserved the marsh but also provided public access for the community, promoting health and wellness through outdoor recreation.
Dotson’s leadership extended through his roles as President of the North Richmond Shoreline Open Space Alliance and Associate Director of the North Richmond Neighborhood House. His advocacy encompassed overseeing the cleanup of contaminated sites like Campus Bay and the UC Berkeley Richmond Field Station, advocating for safe environments free from pollutants that adversely affect public health.
Armed with a master’s degree in public health, Dotson underscored the critical link between open spaces and community well-being, highlighting disparities in health outcomes such as asthma and heart disease among low-income populations. His efforts continue to shape policies that prioritize environmental justice and equitable access to green spaces in North Richmond.
Legacy of Inspiration
Dr. Henry Clark and Whitney Dotson exemplify the power of community-driven activism and environmental stewardship. Their unwavering dedication and transformative leadership have enriched the fabric of North Richmond, leaving a lasting legacy of resilience, justice, and hope for future generations to uphold.
As North Richmond continues to evolve, their stories serve as guiding beacons, reminding us all of the profound impact of individuals committed to making a difference. In celebrating these local legends at the North Richmond Farm, we honor their contributions and renew our commitment to advancing social equity and environmental sustainability in our communities.