NAACP Applauds Biden-Harris Administration for Meaningful Steps Towards Making Clean Water a Reality for All
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Thursday, November 30
Contact: Alicia Mercedes, amercedes@naacpnet.org
WASHINGTON - Today, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced their new, proposed Lead Copper in Drinking Water Rule. The proposed rule, which includes a more formal commitment to delivering a full replacement of all lead pipe infrastructure throughout the nation over the next ten years. The move comes as the NAACP and advocates across the nation have stepped up to respond to our nation's failing water infrastructure and the catastrophes that it has presented, particularly within communities of color. NAACP President & CEO Derrick Johnson released the following statement applauding the Administration's efforts:
"From Mississippi to Maryland, Black America has been forced to bear the brunt of a water crisis they did not create. The NAACP applauds the Biden Administration for taking meaningful steps toward fulfilling their promise to make clean water a reality for all. Now, we look forward to working with Administrator Regan on community-centered education and implementation. This is what advocacy in action looks like."
Lead in drinking water has been a historically prevalent issue in Black communities, posing extreme risks to the health of young people, mothers, and their families. The crisis of our nation's failing water infrastructure has been further exacerbated by increasingly disastrous climate emergencies. These harmful chemicals have proven negative impacts on reproductive health, memory, blood pressure, and energy levels.
"We must do everything in our power to ensure that every person has access to the clean, safe drinking water they deserve," said Abre' Conner, NAACP Director of Environmental and Climate Justice. "This news marks a pivotal first step towards equity, but it is just the beginning. It is our hope that the administration will continue to expand these crucial, life-saving initiatives with targeted, community-based programs that center those who stand to be most impacted, especially Black Americans. The NAACP will not stop fighting until we make clean water a reality for everybody."
Click here for more information on the Association's efforts to make clean water a reality for all.
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ABOUT NAACP
The NAACP advocates, agitates, and litigates for the civil rights due to Black America. Our legacy is built on the foundation of grassroots activism by the biggest civil rights pioneers of the 20th century and is sustained by 21st century activists. From classrooms and courtrooms to city halls and Congress, our network of members across the country works to secure the social and political power that will end race-based discrimination. That work is rooted in racial equity, civic engagement, and supportive policies and institutions for all marginalized people. We are committed to a world without racism where Black people enjoy equitable opportunities in thriving communities.
NOTE: The Legal Defense Fund – also referred to as the NAACP-LDF - was founded in 1940 as a part of the NAACP, but now operates as a completely separate entity.