Bridging the Access Gap

Bridging the Access Gap

Bridging the Access Gap

Raising awareness about the dire situation of water access in Native American and rural, low-income communities. Shedding light on infrastructural issues affecting these communities is the starting point for change. This platform serves to connect others with knowledge and actionable resources in the name of human rights.

Raising awareness about the dire situation of water access in Native American and rural, low-income communities. Shedding light on infrastructural issues affecting these communities is the starting point for change. This platform serves to connect others with knowledge and actionable resources in the name of human rights.

Raising awareness about the dire situation of water access in Native American and rural, low-income communities. Shedding light on infrastructural issues affecting these communities is the starting point for change. This platform serves to connect others with knowledge and actionable resources in the name of human rights.

The Invisible Injustice

The Invisible Injustice

The Invisible Injustice

In a country as prosperous and wealthy as the US, a staggering injustice continues. Native American and rural low-income communities on ancestral lands are denied access to the most basic of human rights: clean drinking water and proper sanitation. Systemic discrimination and lack of public water infrastructure investment have left these communities to fend for themselves, which has resulted in an alarmingly higher likelihood of living without running water compared to other Americans. The consequences of this neglect are devastating. The effects only perpetuate a cycle of marginalization, hindering growth, and social progress. It is a clear violation of environmental justice principles, which demand the fair distribution of resources and the right to a healthy environment for all.

In a country as prosperous and wealthy as the US, a staggering injustice continues. Native American and rural low-income communities on ancestral lands are denied access to the most basic of human rights: clean drinking water and proper sanitation. Systemic discrimination and lack of public water infrastructure investment have left these communities to fend for themselves, which has resulted in an alarmingly higher likelihood of living without running water compared to other Americans. The consequences of this neglect are devastating. The effects only perpetuate a cycle of marginalization, hindering growth, and social progress. It is a clear violation of environmental justice principles, which demand the fair distribution of resources and the right to a healthy environment for all.

Ripple Effects of Water Inequity


Ripple Effects of Water Inequity


Ripple Effects of Water Inequity


The denial of clean water access to Indigenous and rural communities is definitely not a standalone issue; its impact can be felt past the affected areas. As we confront the systemic gaps in conditions that other places take for granted, we can start to see and understand the complex layers of injustice. The fight for water equity is primarily about restoring dignity, health, and opportunity to those marginalized communities. By drawing attention to the tangible impacts facing specific communities, we can spark a movement that demands accountability and action from those in directly in power. Addressing these water problems requires an adaptable approach, and success means ensuring reliable access to clean drinking water and proper sewage treatment for all, regardless of race, ethnicity, or geographic location. It is a fundamental step towards building a more just and fair-minded society.



The denial of clean water access to Indigenous and rural communities is definitely not a standalone issue; its impact can be felt past the affected areas. As we confront the systemic gaps in conditions that other places take for granted, we can start to see and understand the complex layers of injustice. The fight for water equity is primarily about restoring dignity, health, and opportunity to those marginalized communities. By drawing attention to the tangible impacts facing specific communities, we can spark a movement that demands accountability and action from those in directly in power. Addressing these water problems requires an adaptable approach, and success means ensuring reliable access to clean drinking water and proper sewage treatment for all, regardless of race, ethnicity, or geographic location. It is a fundamental step towards building a more just and fair-minded society.



FAQ//GET INVOLVED

What is the current status?

Alarming to say the least. Native American households are 19 times more likely than white households to suffer from lack of plumbing. An estimated 1 in 10 Indigenous Americans lack access to safe tap water, exposing them to highly-concentrated metals like manganese and arsenic, as well as other contaminants such as industrial chemicals and other microbial pathogens.

Why should I care?

You should care because our ecosystems are interconnected. Contamination in one area can have wider impacts for all. This is broadened by the fact that poor sanitation and contamination leads to the spread of diseases, affecting other populations and straining our healthcare systems. Ensuring universal rights to clean water becomes a social responsibility with shared stakeholders across our nation.

How can I help?

By educating yourself and others about the impact, and understanding how policies currently affect water infrastructure for marginalized populations. Additionally, you can also donate directly to these efforts. Here are some legitimate causes that would put your money to good, relevant use: www.navajowaterproject.org www.narf.org www.indian-affairs.org www.treeswaterpeople.org