Gulf Scholars Program

About The Program

The Xavier Gulf Scholars Program was founded on the principle of creating "change-agents" out of its students. To promote justice, equity, sustainability, and humanity across the region through the support and strategic action dedicated to issues of safety, resiliency, ecosystem sustainability, and human well-being, the Xavier Gulf Scholars Program is spotlighting organizations at the forefront of the fight and their efforts.

Spotlight on The Descendants Project

The Descendants Project is an emerging organization focused on the healing and flourishing of the Black descendant community across generations in Louisiana's River Parishes. The River Parishes has a devastating but rich history of settler colonialism and slavery. The environmental degradation the region has faced since the 20th century is a remnant of that history. When large petrochemical plants and refineries moved into the River Parishes, the pollution from them began to take a toll on its vulnerable majority-Black communities. The region is now called “Cancer Alley” for the extreme risks of cancer and death due to pollution.

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Credits

Photos by Christopher Taylor