Justice in the Gem City: Environmentally-Just Communication Practices in the Dayton Metropolitan Area

Date of Award

5-9-2026

Degree Name

M.A. in Interdisciplinary Studies

Department

Department of Communication

Advisor/Chair

Danielle Quichocho

Abstract

This study examines how environmental organizations in the Dayton metropolitan area implement environmentally-just communication practices through the lenses of dialogic communication, environmental justice, and decolonial theory. Using qualitative data from twelve semi-structured interviews across three organizations, the research explores how dialogic principles are reflected in communication strategies, what factors influence these practices, and how dialogue relates to broader justice-oriented frameworks. Findings indicate that organizations are increasingly adopting engagement-focused approaches, but also suggest that the presence of dialogic communication does not inherently produce environmentally-just or decolonial outcomes. Power imbalances between institutions and communities persist, and communication strategies, though evolving, still largely rely on traditional methods rather than more transformative approaches. External factors, including historical inequities, contemporary social movements, and shifts in funding and policy, emerged as key drivers of change, suggesting that transitions toward environmentally-just communication practices are often reactive rather than proactive. Future research should incorporate community perspectives and further explore participatory models to better understand how equitable and decolonial communication can be achieved.

Keywords

Communication, Sustainability

Comments

OCLC No. 1591829883

Rights Statement

Copyright 2026, author.

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