Clean Water: A Social Justice Issue

     In observance of World Social Justice Day on February 20^th, 2015, GlobeMed at Rutgers celebrated the accomplishments and contributions Black Americans have made in their efforts to create a just and equitable society. Graciela Cando, one of the campaign leaders said:

“GlobeMed members engaged Rutgers students and faculty with an interactive board game that tested their knowledge on everything between the social and scientific accomplishments of black Americans throughout history. Members reminded the Rutgers community about the courage and achievements of Rosa Parks, Harriet Tubman, Martin Luther King Jr., Loretta Rose, and many more. GlobeMed hoped to inspire the Rutgers community to be advocates of change in their own lives. Inspirational quotes and random acts of kindness were handed out to begin a movement. Many were also asked to share what their dream was for a more just and safe world.”

     One of the social justice issues highlighted was the lack of access to clean and safe water. For many of us living in more developed regions, clean water isn't a daily thought. However, according to the World Health Organization, “780 million people lack access to clean, safe water”. Unfortunately, for those living in less developed regions it is a pressing social justice issue but its potential resolution is seen in tackling the structural issues that cause inequality. For our partner Change A life Uganda (CALU), access to clean, safe water was once a dream but now it is a reality.

     In 2012, CALU was able to raise enough funds to drill a well and erect a 50,000 liter water tower for the local families that used to walk miles for water. Quarters for Water, one of CALU’s local initiatives has made strides in improving the quality of life in Migyera, Uganda. Though, this is an enormous step, there are many more world regions and people who have yet to reach such an accomplishment. Today, March 31^st, 2015, GlobeMed at Rutgers hopes to engage the Rutgers community in fighting this water crisis by making changes in what we do, how we live, and how we use water. Simply put, we believe water is life. 

Nasim Dariani, a first year GlobeMed Staff Member shares her dream 

IMPORTANT: Because of inclement weather, the "Water is Life" Campaign will be moved to a later date. Check our facebook page for updates.

https://www.facebook.com/GlobeMedRU

Sources: World Health Organization and UNICEF Joint Monitoring Programme (JMP). (2014). Progress on Drinking Water and Sanitation, 2014 Update.

By Jennifer Alegun, Staff Member