There are foreign chemicals in our water that aren’t meant for human consumption. How did they get there and do they pose any risk to our health?

 

Perfluorooctanoic acids and polyfluoroalkyl substances, known as PFAS, are a group of man-made chemicals that have been manufactured and used in a variety of industries around the globe. The chemical company, DuPont, introduced this substance in the 1950s when they produced Teflon, and subsequently began to pollute the public water supply, eventually resulting in one of the largest class action lawsuits in the history of environmental law.

 

With the water crisis in L.A. becoming more widely known, it is important to address the situation and let the people of our city know that we are passionate about informing the public and fighting this issue.

Garcia Hosts "The Devil We Know" Screening; Informs Community on Water Contamination

 

The recent screening of documentary The Devil We Know was hosted at Bell Gardens High School in Los Angeles County in efforts to share the dangers of contaminated water with the public. The Bell Gardens High School Environmental Club partnered with Assemblymember Cristina Garcia, The City of Bell Gardens, the Sierra Club Angeles Chapter and others to present this important film, filling the school’s auditorium and providing the largest turn out in the nation-wide screening. 

 

Assemblywoman Garcia provided attendees with a legislative report to inform the public about the dangers of PFAS in drinking water and stated that AB756 will be in effect starting January 2020. As a result of the governor signing AB756, the State Water Board also lowered its notification limits. The event was successful in providing crucial information to the public and gave speakers the opportunity to connect directly with those who have been or are currently affected by the water crisis. 

 

The Devil We Know brought us power as a group and allowed knowledgeable speakers and  Angeles Chapter leaders to answer questions the public had about the water crisis, PFAS and health concerns.

 

There are other resources available to help you seek action in your city. The Environmental Working Group’s website www.ewg.org covers information about PFAS. You can also contact Yvonne Watson at ywatson@dslextreme.com and Charming Evelyn at bcharmz@aol.com for more information. Be the eyes and ears in your community and help us take action by spreading the word!