Friends,

This month, as we recognize Black History Month, we must recommit ourselves to ensuring every American is treated fairly and equally.

That includes making sure every citizen has access to clean air, clean water, and a healthy environment, but for many, that is not the case. Residents right here in Cahokia Heights have experienced issues with their drinking water and sewage systems for over two decades.

Since 2019, residents have cited over 90 documented instances of sewage coming out of government-owned pipes and into their homes.

This is not just the result of climate change — but also of our federal government’s failure to improve the city’s crumbling infrastructure in a predominantly Black city.

Residents in this community are paying the price. For decades, they have been exposed to unsafe living conditions and undrinkable water — leading to health issues like bacterial infections and stomach parasites.

It’s infuriating and shameful that this is happening in the wealthiest country in the world. But sadly, it’s not surprising that we’ve allowed this to happen in poor communities of color.

Clean water shouldn’t be a luxury. Our communities are suffering, and it’s time to take meaningful action to ensure everyone — no matter their zip code — can live in a safe, healthy environment.

That’s why I recently secured the appointment of an EPA Coordinator to lead our response to this crisis. I also joined Illinois Senators Dick Durbin and Tammy Duckworth in requesting a public health assessment by the Department of Health and Human Services, Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR) on the impact of decades of flooding in Cahokia Heights.

This will allow us to work toward making critical upgrades to improve our district's infrastructure and address the persistent flooding, sewage, and drinking water crisis facing our residents.

Working to remedy the disproportionate impacts climate change has had on communities of color is critical to moving our communities forward.

Will you stand with me by adding your name today and joining me in committing to the fight for environmental justice?

Thank you,

Nikki