Some of entertainment’s most esteemed are shining light on a major crisis and giving back at the same time. Directors Ava DuVernay and Ryan Coogler, singer Janelle Monáe and actor Jessie Williams are teaming up to support #JusticeForFlint. The initiative stems from the lack of urgency over a huge lead problem in Flint, Michigan’s water that’s contaminating its predominately African-American community. The #JusticeForFlint event is set to take place this Sunday [February 28]. The event shares the same date as the 88th Academy Awards.
It should be no surprise the great minds behind entertainment’s most telling experiences of the African American perspective are coming together for Flint. The city’s toxic water has exposed 6,000-12,000 children to health ailments as a result of lead poisoning thus far. It has been ongoing for two years and government officials have yet to fix the problem. Eight lawsuits have been filed regarding the Flint Water Crisis to date, and several investigations have been opened. However, there has been no progress on a resolution.
An outpouring of support from the U.S. and beyond has gotten clean water by the truckload to residents. DuVernay, Coogler, Monae and Williams are just some of the forces behind the #JusticeForFlint event that will also live-stream on Revolt TV, owned by Sean “Puffy” Combs. “Through the live stream we will also give a chance for people around the world to participate, and to donate funds to programs for Flint’s youth. We will give a voice to the members of the community who were the victims of the choices of people in power who are paid to protect them, as well as provide them with a night of entertainment, unity, and emotional healing.”
Flint has been under a lot of pressure as residents seek answers for a problem ailing the community at an alarming rate. To many the event symbolizes support and acknowledgement of the major issue. Several entities have donated bottles of water to support residents while the government comes up with answers. Flint is hoping for a more just way of living, but in the meantime heavyweights of entertainment are coming together to show that they are not alone in their pursuit of a solution. For more information on the #JusticeForFlint event click here.
