Water Is

March 19, 2015

Water is essential to human life. Yet, three quarters of a billion people do not have access to drinkable water. Systematic barriers such as classism, sexism, and racism have forced women and girls throughout the world to struggle with limited educational opportunities, exposure to preventable diseases, and even violence in the search for clean water.

March 22 marks World Water Day. Spread the word: Safe, clean, and affordable water is a human right! Watch the video below to learn more.

But systematic oppression isn’t the only barrier to universally realizing the human right to water. Climate change is becoming a major factor in how and when we consume water. In fact, Kenya’s unpredictable rainy season — one result of climate change — has inspired communities near the Kakamega rain forest to get creative. They are using sand and trees for water filtration and developing water catchment systems for agricultural use during periods of drought. In the United States, Californians are mobilizing in the face of drought and water contamination to ignite a recommitment to the Human Right to Water Act, originally passed in 2012, among policymakers.

At UUSC, we’re inviting our supporters to participate in Climate Justice Month, which kicks off today with Climate Justice Sunday. Over the coming weeks, you will learn how your community can support people in Kenya and other communities protecting their water in the face of climate change.

Stay tuned!