Hi Reader,
Injustice, in one form or another, is the subject of nearly every ProPublica story. Exposing inequities and breaches of the public trust is at the heart of our mission, and our hope is that a sustained spotlight on our findings will spur impact.
Earlier this month, we reported on how a Black community in West Virginia has become a “sacrifice zone” for industrial air pollution from one of the most dangerous chemical plants in America. For decades, residents have been asking regulators for better protections, but little has been done by either the government or Dow Chemical, the plant’s owner. And this is not an anomaly. According to our analysis, the level of cancer risk from industrial air pollution is double in majority-Black areas than majority-white areas. This appalling story is part of our larger series on mapping cancer-causing industrial air pollution across the country.
When we shine a light on unjust behavior like this, we create a more accountable system where change often occurs. This year, our work has spurred resignations, congressional investigations and much more. From industrial air pollution, to police departments nationwide, to elected officials, we will let nothing stop us from holding those in power to account.
As a ProPublica reader, you understand the connection between accountability journalism, democracy and corporate responsibility. Our readers donate the money that drives our work, and today I’m asking you to join us with a year-end gift in support of journalism that makes a difference.
We’ve got big plans for 2022, and your gift today will help ProPublica carry out our urgent mission to create real-world impact through important journalism.
Thank you,
Jill Shepherd
Proud ProPublican