Fighting to Breathe: Race, Toxicity, and the Rise of Youth Activism in Baltimore

Fighting to Breathe follows a group of high school students who took action against health disparities and inequality in their city by advocating for better waste management strategies and standing up to unequal land use practices. Nicole Fabricant, a Baltimore resident and activist-scholar, documented their efforts.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 266 pages
Publication date: 13 December 2022
Publisher: University of California Press

Industrial toxic emissions on the South Baltimore Peninsula rank among the highest in the nation, posing significant health risks to the residents. The concentration of factories and other chemical industries in their neighborhoods leads to elevated rates of lung cancer, respiratory illnesses, heart attacks, strokes, and cardiovascular disease, resulting in premature deaths.

Fighting to Breathe is a captivating documentary that follows a dynamic and creative group of high school students who have taken matters into their own hands to address the race- and class-based health disparities and inequality in their city. For over a decade, these student organizers have been at the forefront of the fight against unequal land use practices and the proposed construction of an incinerator. Instead, they have initiated innovative waste management strategies that prioritize sustainability and justice.

Nicole Fabricant, a Baltimore resident and activist-scholar, intimately documents the journey of these young organizers as they envision, design, and create a more just and sustainable Baltimore. Through her lens, we witness the unwavering determination and resilience of these young leaders as they work tirelessly to build a healthier and more equitable city for all its residents.

The documentary highlights the devastating impact of industrial pollution on the health of the community, particularly the marginalized and underprivileged populations who bear the brunt of the consequences. It sheds light on the systemic issues that contribute to these disparities, including lack of access to healthcare, inadequate public transportation, and unequal distribution of resources.

The students' efforts to combat these challenges are inspiring and demonstrate the power of youth activism. They have organized community meetings, rallied support from local organizations, and worked closely with government officials to advocate for change. Their innovative waste management strategies, such as composting and recycling, have not only reduced the amount of waste in the city but also created jobs and economic opportunities for the community.

Fighting to Breathe also showcases the personal stories of the students and their families, who have been affected by the health disparities in their community. These stories provide a humanizing perspective on the issue and highlight the urgency of addressing the root causes of health inequality.

The documentary raises important questions about the role of corporations and government in addressing environmental and health issues. It calls for greater accountability and transparency from these institutions and emphasizes the need for policies that prioritize the health and well-being of communities over the interests of profit.

In conclusion, Fighting to Breathe is a powerful and eye-opening documentary that sheds light on the urgent need to address health disparities and inequality in our communities. Through the stories of these young organizers and the personal accounts of their families, the documentary inspires us to take action and work towards a more just and sustainable future. It serves as a reminder that we all have a role to play in fighting for a healthier and more equitable world.

Weight: 360g
Dimension: 152 x 229 x 18 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780520379329