Putting a human face on the water crisis in Flint, Michigan

Americas Now

The water supply of the U.S. city of Flint, Michigan became poisoned after its water source was switched to cut costs. The result was a public health emergency, as thousands of residents were exposed to the contamination.

Correspondent Roee Ruttenberg traveled to Flint for “Americas Now.” He gives us an up-close look at the people and the politics behind the Flint Water Crisis. He also tells us about the community’s thirst for justice.

For months, residents of this once-booming industrial town have been blaming state officials for a water crisis they say should never have happened.

In April, prosecutors announced criminal charges against three government employees accused of covering up critical information about lead in Flint’s pipes. The people of Flint are demanding answers.

The source of water in Flint has now been changed back. But experts say it could still be another year before the lead that’s already in the pipe clears out.

On May 4th, U.S. President Barack Obama visited Flint, Michigan. He met with government officials including Governor Rick Snyder and Mayor Karen Weaver. He also spoke to families affected by the water crisis and in a speech at Northwestern High School told residents “I’ve got your back.”

Watch Roee’s report below to find out more about the outrage, health risks and human toll caused by the Flint Water Crisis.

Putting a human face on the water crisis in Flint, Michigan

The water supply of the U.S. city of Flint, Michigan became poisoned after its water source was switched to cut costs. The result was a public health emergency, as thousands of residents were exposed to the contamination. Correspondent Roee Ruttenberg traveled to Flint for “Americas Now.” He gives us an up-close look at the people and the politics behind the Flint Water Crisis. He also tell us about the community’s thirst for justice. For months, residents of this once-booming industrial town have been blaming state officials for a water crisis they say should never have happened. In April, prosecutors announced criminal charges against three government employees accused of covering up critical information about lead in Flint’s pipes. The people of Flint are demanding answers. The source of water in Flint has now been changed back. But experts say it could still be another year before the lead that’s already in the pipe clears out. On May 4th, U.S. President Barack Obama visited Flint, Michigan. He met with government officials including Governor Rick Snyder and Mayor Karen Weaver. He also spoke to families affected by the water crisis and in a speech at Northwestern High School told residents “I’ve got your back.” Watch Roee’s report below to find out more about the outrage, health risks and human toll caused by the Flint Water Crisis.