Community Involvement

At the end of the day, the people living within the community are going to have to take responsibility for the conditions of their homes.  They, like me, have to be educated about the contaminants and pollutants that plague their homes and are quite possibly contributing to their low performance and under achievement.  Education is often frowned upon within the community because it is thought of as being ‘uppity’ or ‘bourgeois’; both are just signs of ignorance and are excuses that we as a people have tolerated because we have held others responsible for our health and safety.  Though the landlords and banking institutions could do more as a moral responsibility; the ultimate responsibility falls upon the residents.  

 

Solutions for the Residents:

1.      Before moving into the property, verify the date it was constructed to see if toxic hazards are present.

2.      If it was constructed prior to 1978, ask the owner if they intend to use green materials to rectify the situation.  If not, don’t move in to the property.

3.      Know your rights!  Read the paperwork before you sign it. Just because you are on section 8 does not mean the tenant has to live under toxic conditions.