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Multiple cities around the US are experiencing a water crisis, and they all have one thing in common.
They’re majority Black. In Jackson, Mississippi, more than 80% of the capital city is Black; in Baltimore, it’s 62%, and in Flint, Michigan, 54% of the population is Black. Jackson residents avoided the city’s tap water for decades before they ran completely dry in August 2022.
E Coli. recently found its way into Baltimore City’s water. Flint, Michigan’s water? It’s been contaminated with lead since at least 2014. What gives?
Our cities are systemically impacted by environmental racism. Decades of infrastructure neglect by mostly white lawmakers have left our people thirsty for justice because this water crisis isn’t affecting white suburban neighborhoods.
Jackson residents say the water from their kitchen sinks smells like sewage. In 2020, the city’s water system failed inspection and was found to host harmful bacteria.
Even when the government says the water is safe to drink again, many won’t trust them, and why should they?
Anti-Blackness affects every part of our lives, including something as simple as clean drinking water. We must come together and care for our communities on our own.
Help by donating to Cooperation Jackson.