Earlier this year, Flint, Michigan made headlines as the city had not had clean water since April 2014. Many news outlets had compared Flint’s water to other cities and showed many of the city’s lead-tainted water pipes. Flint remained in the news for months, and the city had received an influx of donations. Since Flint hasn’t been talked about in the mainstream media, it would seem as though Flint was actually receiving help, and the state of Michigan would have the issue handled by now.
This assumption would be incorrect. No action has been taken in the city of Flint. This means that the people of Flint are still having to use bottled water for daily use and consumption. According to CNN, each Flint resident was ordered to deliver at least 96 half-liter bottles per week by District Court Judge David Lawson. Without Judge Lawson, citizens would have to pay hundreds of dollars to purchase bottled water — a basic human necessity.
In February 2016, filters were installed in residents’ homes to combat the lead-tainted water. These filters have been proven to not function correctly. In a court document, a nonprofit organization had visited many homes to check their filters, and over 400 homes had experienced issues.
The only progress during the fight for Flint to receive clean water occurred last week. On December 20th, four officials were charged for felonies of false pretenses and conspiracy. These officials had falsely reported to and misled Michigan’s Department of Treasury in order to receive funds for construction of a new pipeline. Even though they haven’t been convicted, this brings Flint one step closer to clean water.
Flint still needs help to receive clean water. Make those around you aware that citizens are still suffering and losing hope. Find ways that you can help the Flint water crisis here.
