Toxic Tours
A Toxic Tour is a walking tour of Little Village led by LVEJO community organizers. It is part community history lesson, part environmental justice education, and part firsthand look at the industrial conditions that residents live alongside every day.
What You Will See
Since 2000, LVEJO has led Toxic Tours for students, educators, researchers, community members, and advocates from across Chicago and beyond.
Tours run seasonally from spring through fall and begin at Semillas de Justicia Community Garden, 2727 S. Troy Street.
Sites on the Toxic Tour include Semillas de Justicia Community Garden, 26th and Sacramento, Cook County Jail, the Collateral Channel, La Villita Park, and La Villita Farm.
Schedule a Tour
To schedule a Toxic Tour, contact toxictours@lvejo.org.
Who Takes Toxic Tours
Toxic Tours are a resource for:
- Community members wanting to learn about Little Village’s history and ongoing environmental justice campaigns, and struggles
- Students doing school projects
- Educators looking for an interactive environmental justice curriculum
- Community members wanting to learn about Little Village’s history and ongoing struggles
- Researchers, advocates, and organizations interested in environmental justice
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the minimum number of people per group?
We prefer a minimum sized group of 25 people.
How long is the Toxic Tour?
Toxic Tours typically last 2 hours. Larger groups may run longer.
Is it a walking tour?
Yes. If your group would like a bus, you are responsible for booking and paying for it. Please wear appropriate shoes and be aware that some parts of the tour have poor infrastructure.
What days are available?
Contact toxictours@lvejo.org to confirm availability.
Is there a fee?
Yes. The fee is $25 per person. Discounts are available to Little Village community members and students.
What is the cancellation policy?
LVEJO reserves the right to cancel a tour with 72 hours notice at no fee. Groups may cancel a tour with 48 hours notice at no fee. Cancellations within 48 hours of a confirmed tour are subject to a 50% cancellation fee.
Where does the tour start?
Toxic Tours begin at Semillas de Justicia community garden, 2727 S. Troy Street.
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