Join us as we remember the tragic rail car explosion of crude oil in Lac Mégantic, Quebec, and connect it to recent incidents closer to home. From the Paulsboro, NJ train derailment of toxic chemicals to the East Palestine, Ohio derailment of PVC materials, these incidents highlight the urgent need for action to protect sacred water and ensure safety for all, regardless of income. Waterspirit has been involved with the decade long effort to enhance rail safety out of New Jersey, the Coalition to Ban Unsafe Oil Trains and we continue to realize the interconnectedness of public health and sacred water.
When: Monday, July 8, 2024, 4:30 – 6:00 pm
Where: THE LOCATION HAS CHANGED TO BE INDOORS DUE TO POOR AIR QUALITY AND EXTREME HEAT CONDITIONS - Knights of Columbus 829 Windsor Rd in Teaneck off of Cedar Lane (still near buses)
On this anniversary, we honor the 47 lives lost and communities devastated by a crude oil explosion in Lac Mégantic. This tragedy underscores the critical importance of worker safety, rail safety, and preventing the transportation of hazardous, volatile materials that endanger workers, waterways and communities.
Closer to home, incidents like the train derailment in Paulsboro, New Jersey and the recent derailment in East Palestine – a train headed for New Jersey- remind us of the ongoing risks posed by transporting toxic chemicals and materials through our communities. These incidents threaten our sacred water sources and the health of our families, highlighting the need for stricter safety regulations and proactive measures to prevent such disasters.
Water is life, and it is a fundamental right that transcends income levels. We must unite across communities to demand stronger worker safety standards, stricter regulations on rail transportation of hazardous materials, and a shift towards non-toxic alternatives that safeguard our sacred water sources.
Now is the time to advocate for change. Join us in calling for passage of new Rail Safety legislation in New Jersey: A4460/S3389, including minimum 2 person crews, shorter trains, effective wayside detectors-vital provisions to help prevent accidents.
Join our advocacy efforts to protect sacred water for all. Together, may we build a just and stable planet!
Let’s honor the past, protect our present, and secure a better future for generations to come. Together, we can ensure that water remains sacred and safe for all. See Waterspirit’s calendar posting for this event here!