Celebrating small water victory in Denmark, SC

Latest

Deanna Miller Berry, speaking for safe and affordable water for the people of Denmark, SC. (2019)
PHOTO: Miracle Chatman

 
DENMARK, SC — With Covid-19, access to safe affordable water when under quarantine is a hardship. Yet, recently, the City decided to start shutting off everyone’s water without notice. We got it turned back on through funding and grants based on the overwhelming response from the community.
We let them know that we knew that at least 100 homes had been shut off. Some residents here have had water shut off for over a week. The City did this without having a plan of action to assist residents experiencing hardships with Covid-19. And, no one had a plan to help residents get back on their feet and not have to pay three months water bills at one time. Last year, no one wanted to do anything. Today I raised holy Hell with the governor’s office, telling them that citizens have to have access to water. It’s a health issue. Due to one of our state senators, they managed to get the governor to agree to turn it back on, even if we have no money.
It was a small victory because the city is still not willing to implement a plan to help folks while we deal with covid-19. The stimulus package should have taken into account that we have rents of $600 and above and water bills are more than your rent. The City’s only concern is finances, not the health of the people. We’re still fighting to bring back experts and get a water filter plant and address the health of the people affected by the toxins in the water.
But, for now, people are really happy. We’re celebrating in Denmark!

+ Articles by this author

Free to republish but please credit the People's Tribune. Visit us at www.peoplestribune.org, email peoplestribune@gmail.com, or call 773-486-3551.

The People’s Tribune brings you articles written by individuals or organizations, along with our own reporting. Bylined articles reflect the views of the authors. Unsigned articles reflect the views of the editorial board. Please credit the source when sharing: ©2024 peoplestribune.org. Please donate to help us keep bringing you voices of the movement. Click here. We’re all volunteer, no paid staff.

LEAVE A REPLY

Please enter your comment!
Please enter your name here

Featured

A Salute to Chicagoans Fighting ICE

A salute to Chicagoans fighting ICE and to the food delivery worker on a bicycle who outrode ICE agents after they tried to kidnap him on the streets of downtown Chicago.

Over 60 Lawmakers Launch Investigation Into Trump Administration’s Disappearances

Some Democrats in Congress have announced they are investigating the Trump administration’s practice of disappearing immigrants to other countries.

America Cannot Afford This Dangerous Step

Americans should be chilled at government's recent designation of “Antifa” as a domestic terrorist organization (it isn't an organization). This allows for the criminalization of broad swaths of dissent, and won't stop with "Antifa."

America is Divided—But it’s the Wrong Divide

The real divide is between those who have and those who don't. We have the abundance to care for everyone and government must see to it that people's needs are met.

Slovenia’s President Tells UN: ‘We Must Stop the Genocide’

Nataša Pirc Musar, president of Slovenia, speaks about stopping the Gaza genocide, climate, respecting international law and other critical issues to the UN General Assembly. Videos of other international leaders are included.

More from the People's Tribune