Environment
As more attention is being paid to the threats of global warming and the climate crisis, we need to understand what the issues are relative to our immediate families and communities. We have all heard of the need to understand that the climate changes are forcing major changes in the way we live on this planet. However, the problem with many minorities and communities is that the way the discussion is presented or framed, doesn’t relate directly to them. Policy people and organizations often appeal to consumers by talking about reducing our carbon footprint, or discussing ways to make sustainable energy sources a priority. They don’t realize that in our communities, people are more concerned with making ends meet, getting their children the best education possible and getting employed than making conscientious choices that will preserve our planet’s safety.
To many people who have to deal with their daily struggles to meet their basic needs of food, shelter, education and jobs, saving the planet is not their top priority. Instead, we have to learn to relate the importance and benefits of individuals getting involved with behaviors like turning the lights off when you leave a room, using minimal water while washing up or turning off the faucet is something that is simple and easy for everyone to do. They have to understand that modifying basic behavior is the first step to creating environmental consciousness. Everyone who lives in a house has to turn lights on and off. They use the water faucets several times during the day. They consume foods and materials that require packing materials that can be recycled for use that would save our planet’s natural resources. We have to reinforce what our teachers are telling our children in school. Without reinforcement from the parents when the children come home, there is neither consistency nor attention paid to the issues.
In many minority communities, the issue of toxic dumps located close to their communities is of paramount importance and affects their daily health. In addition, educating minorities and women that toxic chemicals can be contained in products will help them to avoid using products that can endanger their children and families’ long-term health. We need to tell them the problems caused when they are not paying attention to these issues.
If we do not care about the air we breathe, the water we drink, the chemicals in our food chain, then our children will suffer. They will be show us the effects of poor eating choices, lack of exercise, toxins in our food chain and toxins in materials in our homes that cause long-term health problems. Our children could be the first generation to suffer from debilitating diseases and pass away before their parents. Having children who are diabetic when they are 6 or 8 years old creates a serious health problem to our families, communities and nation. The economic and social effects of caring for children who are sick and chronically ill at such a young age will have lasting and profound effects on many levels.
As parents, caretakers and families, we have to pay attention and take care of these issues because they affect all aspects of our lives. We cannot choose to ignore our responsibilities. If we don’t pay attention now, we will leave a planet that will offer far less opportunities for our children than what we experienced when we were growing up.
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