In Flint, Michigan, the struggle for clean water continues to be a pressing concern as residents like 39-year-old Sarah Johnson distribute bottled water to their neighbors. “We must support each other,” she stated in an interview. “It’s still the marginalized and contaminated communities looking after one another because state assistance is lacking.” Despite the lack of media coverage, Flint is still grappling with severe water quality issues.
The Origins of the Water Crisis
The water crisis in Flint began in 2014 when the city changed its source from Lake Huron to the Flint River. The Flint River had a long history of pollution, which was exacerbated in the 1970s when it became contaminated with various harmful substances, including fecal coliform bacteria and toxic chemicals. In response to the pollution, Michigan’s Department of Natural Resources mandated the cleanup of numerous hazardous sites along the river. However, when Flint switched its municipal water supply, officials neglected to introduce a necessary anti-corrosive agent, leading to corrosion of the water pipes and the leaching of lead into the drinking water. Although officials assured residents that the water was “safe to drink,” reports of health issues began to surface as early as January 2015, with children experiencing mysterious illnesses and rashes. Flint eventually reverted back to Lake Huron water, but the damage was already done, impacting the health of many residents.
Legionnaire’s Disease Outbreak
While many people are aware of the lead poisoning crisis affecting Flint’s children, fewer know about the alarming outbreak of Legionnaire’s disease that emerged in January 2016, leading to 87 reported cases and 10 deaths. The CDC identifies Legionnaire’s disease as a severe respiratory infection caused by the Legionella bacteria, which proliferates in man-made water systems. Those become infected by inhaling contaminated water droplets. Allegations surfaced that Nick Lyon, the head of the Health Department, was aware of the outbreak for over a year before it was disclosed to the public. Ultimately, 12 individuals died, and community members believe this number may be understated due to inadequate postmortem testing. In June 2017, Lyon and five other officials faced involuntary manslaughter charges related to the fatalities linked to Flint’s water crisis. However, many activists, including those from Flint Rising, express frustration that the charges do not implicate the Michigan governor directly.
Ongoing Legal Battles
The water crisis in Flint is compounded by ongoing legal battles. In late June, the state of Michigan initiated a federal lawsuit against Flint for its failure to approve a sustainable drinking water source for residents. The city’s mayor negotiated a long-term agreement with the Great Lakes Water Authority to secure a reduced-cost water supply, but the city council rejected it, leading to potential threats to public health. The situation remains unresolved as court discussions continue, while the mayor’s position faces potential recall.
Other Areas Facing Water Contamination
Flint is not the only area facing water contamination challenges. In parts of Southwest Chicago and Northwest Indiana, lead pollution persists due to a combination of industrial legacies and current operations. The Indiana Harbor Coke Company, facing numerous violations, has prompted residents to take legal action against the EPA for failing to address ongoing permit issues. The lead contamination in East Chicago was so severe that it was designated as a Superfund site. The local government has begun replacing lead pipes, aiming to complete 400 homes by May. Residents question the efficacy of the provided water filters, as they continue to worry about safety. An entire housing development was demolished due to contamination, leaving lingering concerns about the health impacts of lead exposure, particularly for children.
Inadequate Federal Response
Despite the attention this crisis has received, federal response has been minimal. The HHS allocated a mere $15 million for Flint’s Genesee County Healthy Start Program, aimed at supporting families affected by lead exposure. HHS Secretary Tom Price described the situation as “urgent,” suggesting that the funds would help connect residents with necessary health and social services. The funds will assist in identifying children with lead poisoning and addressing developmental challenges associated with exposure.
The Ongoing Reality for Flint Families
As many may have shifted their focus away from Flint, the reality remains grim for families still grappling with the consequences of lead contamination. For example, Jessica Anderson’s twin five-year-olds are experiencing significant developmental delays. They face daily challenges, including memory issues and failure to grow properly. The family continues to rely on bottled water for all their needs, consuming an estimated 10 cases daily and boiling water for baths. This has been their reality for two full years, highlighting the long-term impact of lead poisoning.
It is crucial to remember the plight of Flint residents—those like Sarah Johnson, who tirelessly provide bottled water for their community. The ongoing crisis demands attention and action, as the health and well-being of countless families hang in the balance.
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Summary
Flint, Michigan, continues to face a severe water crisis years after the initial contamination, with residents still relying on bottled water and grappling with health issues like lead poisoning and Legionnaire’s disease. While legal action is ongoing, the situation remains dire, not only in Flint but also in other regions like Southwest Chicago and Northwest Indiana, where lead contamination persists. The federal response has been inadequate, leaving families to navigate the long-term consequences of exposure to toxic water.