A virtual discussion about lead poisoning and asthma in Detroit

Lead poisoning and air pollution are among the public health issues that disproportionally impact low-income people of color, especially children. Shedding light on these issues, the Fred A. and Barbara M. Erb Family Foundation is co-sponsoring an event with the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History, Detroit Public Television and Wayne State University with leaders in the public health community engaging in a live-streamed event titled, “Racism: The Real Public Health Crisis.” The virtual event is open to the public and will take place on Monday, August 10 from 1-2 p.m. ET.

The featured speaker is Dr. Michelle Williams, dean of Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health. Dr. Williams will give an address regarding the disparities that exist in public health, touching on issues such as exposure to air pollution and lead. Detroit-based advocates Jamesa Johnson Greer, a policy specialist from the Michigan Environmental Justice Coalition/Citizens Clean Air Council, and Dr. Lyke Thompson, director of the Center for Urban Studies at Wayne State University, will provide insights on how Detroiters are working to address these issues and what is needed to protect public health.