In August 2022, Jackson, Mississippi, faced a catastrophic water system failure after flooding overwhelmed its aging infrastructure—a crisis that residents say highlights systemic racial disparities. With 83% of Jackson’s population identifying as Black, local advocate Margaret Simons argues the issue stems from generations of neglect: 'The problems with water infrastructure are over 100 years old. The city didn’t develop this area because Black and brown people live here.'
The collapse left over 150,000 residents without safe drinking water for weeks, reigniting debates about environmental racism in urban planning. Data shows infrastructure spending in majority-Black neighborhoods lags behind predominantly white areas nationwide, with Southern states like Mississippi often facing the starkest gaps.
Global activists have drawn parallels to similar crises in marginalized communities worldwide, emphasizing how access to clean water remains a litmus test for equity. As climate change intensifies extreme weather, experts warn underfunded cities face heightened risks.
Reference(s):
'Finding True America': Jackson resident says city is in a shambles
cgtn.com
