Member-only story
HEALTH
Why Black People Are Often Exposed to Poor Quality Water
Racial redlining left communities vulnerable to neglect
A sharp blade, like overt racism, causes immediate damage. Hearing someone use a slur, for instance, is quick and painful. It's why some social scientists refer to micro-aggressions as "death by a thousand cuts." Because, over time, they have a cumulative impact. Racist, insensitive comments create a hostile environment that can cause psychological harm. Yet, it's also true that a dull blade can produce a greater injury. In this case, structural racism is akin to a weapon with jagged edges. One that created a wound that's difficult to heal. During the 1960s and 70s, America passed civil rights legislation prohibiting discrimination. But decades later, black communities endured the lingering impact of racist policies. Take, for instance, their access to basic resources, such as clean, safe drinking water.
In America, Black people are often exposed to poor quality drinking water. This is not the result of a single citizen, politician, or organization but rather a reflection of an unjust system that has neglected the needs of Black citizens. How did this happen? It's not as if city water departments are going house to house and matching the quality to the customers' race. This discrimination takes…
