Empathy 1a: Flint Water Crisis

Sep 17, 2024

Flint Water Crisis Lecture Notes

Introduction to Flint Water Crisis

  • Flint, Michigan experienced a water crisis 6 years ago.
  • Residents protested over rust-colored water.
  • Officials initially denied issues; a pediatrician discovered high lead levels in children.
  • The state declared an emergency following this discovery.

Current Situation in Flint

  • Bottled Water Distribution
    • Hundreds of cars line up weekly for bottled water at the Greater Holy Temple Church.
    • Sandra Jones, a community leader, coordinates the distribution.
    • The state stopped providing bottled water, claiming the tap water is now safe.
    • Residents still rely on donated water.

Resident Concerns

  • Mistrust in Authorities
    • Residents, like Larry Marshall, distrust city and state assurances about water safety.
    • Historical neglect and deceit have deepened distrust.

Background of the Water Crisis

  • Initial Water Source Change
    • Flint was nearly bankrupt in 2014; officials switched water source to save money.
    • The switch was from the Great Lakes to the Flint River.
    • Residents immediately noticed rust-colored water and health issues.

Mismanagement and Consequences

  • Failure in Water Treatment
    • Water wasn’t treated properly, causing pipe corrosion.
    • Corroded pipes released lead into the water.
  • Health Impact
    • Lead exposure is irreversible and affects cognition, behavior, and development.
    • Children suffered drops in IQ and developmental delays.

Dr. Mona Hanna-Attisha's Role

  • Discovery and Action
    • Dr. Mona linked high lead levels in children to water supply.
    • Publicized her findings quickly to prompt action.
    • Flint water was switched back to the Great Lakes after her revelation.

Long-term Effects on Children

  • Educational Impact
    • Literacy test scores for third graders dropped significantly.
    • Estimated 14,000 kids under six exposed to lead.

Flint Registry

  • Purpose and Implementation
    • Established to track health and development of affected children.
    • Provides services like speech and occupational therapy.

New Research on Lead Exposure

  • Innovative Techniques
    • Baby teeth analysis developed by Dr. Manish Arora to track lead exposure.
    • Teeth can reveal precise exposure timelines and levels.

Broader Implications

  • National Perspective
    • Other cities like Newark, NJ face similar issues with lead in water.
    • Highlights the critical need for safe drinking water for all children.

Conclusion

  • Ongoing Challenges
    • Despite state efforts, full resolution of the crisis is pending.
    • Community leaders continue to provide essential support.
  • Reflection
    • The crisis raises questions about equity and public health safety in America.