The year 2020 has ushered in change and great uncertainty and also seen the mainstream emergence of the Black Lives Matter (“BLM) movement. Although the current landscape is fluid and still evolving, it seems certain that the BLM movement and the attention paid to systemic racism endured by people of color will have tangible effects on environmental justice long believed to be an aspirational goal, rather than a concrete compliance point. Sidley Austin LLP attorneys Emily Mallen, Simone Jones, and Nicole Noelliste will analyze the potential implications of the BLM movement on pipeline infrastructure planning and major facility siting. After providing a background on environmental justice, they specifically will discuss relevant cases proceeding in courts, matters before the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, and federal and state legislation. The attorneys also will provide meaningful ways that companies should consider engaging with communities of color and strengthening their partnerships with the communities they impact and serve to better ensure that their capital-intensive projects will proceed in a timely manner, the companies maintain their credibility and remain welcomed community partners, and they avoid litigation and other adverse consequences.