Mount Dennis group seeks injunction against Metrolinx over ‘environmental racism’

This situation indeed hints at classism, a societal issue where individuals or communities are treated differently based on their socioeconomic status. The coalition’s argument points toward environmental racism, a subset of classism that occurs when marginalized communities — often poorer and racially diverse — bear the brunt of environmental harm, while more affluent areas are protected or spared.

In this case, the Save Eglinton Flats Coalition alleges that Metrolinx’s decision to remove 1,200 trees in Mount Dennis (a historically underprivileged and racially diverse neighborhood) shows a clear disparity in how different areas are treated. The fact that construction will be more cautious near affluent neighborhoods suggests that wealthier areas receive preferential treatment, while lower-income areas endure environmental degradation.

The case will explore whether these actions violate principles of equity and fairness, reflecting broader systemic issues in urban planning that disproportionately affect vulnerable communities.