In the past weeks, Chester residents have been actively engaged in protesting environmental justice abuses in the city, focusing on the removal of fluoride from city water, increased government attention to air pollution, and the importance of soil remediation, particularly in former industrial zones. On Saturday, March 14th a coalition of Chester students, activists, and residents marched from the Chester YMCA to the Chester Water Authority with signs saying “Take It Out”. They marched to protest the fluoride that is added to Chester’s water supply. Fluoridated water poses health risks; it increases lead absorption which is linked to learning disorders and causes brain damage especially in infants. One week later, on Saturday, March 21st residents marched again, this time to “Keep Them Honest.” The purpose was to demand a Public Air Monitoring Program. The final Day of Action will take place on March 28th. Residents will march from 10am-11am to “Clean It Up,” which refers to soil contamination at the site of the Soccer Stadium.
Residents interested in joining in the March 28th event and future campaigns around issues of environmental justice in Chester are invited to attend an informational meeting on Thursday, March 26th from 6-7 p.m. at the YWCA in Chester, located at 2 East 7th Street. Light refreshments will be provided. For more information, contact the Delco Alliance for Environmental Justice at delcoalliance@gmail.com
