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Poor People’s Campaign to file Fair Housing complaint over Jackson water

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Poor People’s Campaign to file Fair Housing complaint over Jackson water

by Alex Rozier, Mississippi Today
October 10, 2022

Poor People’s Campaign co-chair Rev. William Barber II announced Monday that his organization would be filing a Fair Housing Act complaint against the state of Mississippi for failing to provide clean drinking water to Jackson residents.

Barber announced the news at a Monday evening rally in downtown Jackson. In his return to Jackson after hosting another protest in late September, the reverend marched alongside about 100 city residents from the Smith Robertson Museum, walking a half mile or so to a stage set up outside the Governor’s Mansion.

The Rev. William Barber II speaks at a rally about Jackson’s drinking water on Oct. 10, 2022.

“The Fair Housing law says you cannot refuse to give people what they need in their private housing, in their rental housing, or in their federally owned public housing, what they need to have a decent life,” Barber told the crowd on Capitol Street. “And we believe that when you deny people access to clean water, you are violating their fair housing rights.”

Barber cited that the federal law protects against discrimination in housing based on a number of factors, including race. Jackson, the largest city in Mississippi, is 83% Black. The federal government created the law as part of the Civil Rights Act of 1968.

The Poor People’s Campaign also echoed other activists speaking out against the possibility of privatizing Jackson’s drinking water system.

Jackson residents protest on Lamar Street over the city’s drinking water on Oct. 10, 2022.

“Understand that if you privatize the water of Jackson, everything else is up for grabs,” Barber said. “If you privatize the water they’ll take the economic resources.”

Mississippi Today reported in August that state lawmakers had met to consider new options for managing the city’s water system, including privatizing. It’s unclear, however, what the state’s role will be as the federal government steps in. Last week, the Jackson City Council voted to enter a confidentiality agreement with the Department of Justice in discussing a settlement over the water system, WLBT reported.

This article first appeared on Mississippi Today and is republished here under a Creative Commons license.

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Pope Francis conscious but remains in critical condition after respiratory crisis

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February 23, 2025

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www.wjtv.com – The Associated Press – 2025-02-23 08:19:00

SUMMARY: Pope Francis remains in critical condition, receiving high supplemental oxygen following a respiratory crisis and blood transfusions. The 88-year-old, who has a history of lung issues, was hospitalized on February 14 due to a complex lung infection resulting in pneumonia. A Vatican update reported that he stabilized overnight but continues to face a reserved prognosis. While unable to celebrate Mass, he sent a message for prayers, highlighting the upcoming anniversary of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Doctors warn of potential sepsis, but no signs have emerged yet. Recent decisions by Francis indicate his awareness of his declining health and preparations for succession.

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Mississippi News

Events happening this weekend in Mississippi: February 21-23

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February 21, 2025

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www.wjtv.com – Kaitlin Howell – 2025-02-21 06:33:00

SUMMARY: This weekend in Mississippi (February 21-23), enjoy various activities including the William Winter Free Day at the Two Mississippi Museums in Jackson, and the “Art in Bloom” Flower Show in Natchez. Other highlights are the 31st Annual Chili Feast and “Of Salt and Spirit” quilt exhibition in Jackson, along with the Mississippi Blues Marathon. Engage in arts, culture, and wellness at the No Flinch Faith Women’s Empowerment Conference, and explore local markets in Jackson and Natchez. In Hattiesburg, participate in a Mardi Gras Tennis Mixer and various family-friendly events, culminating in the Monster Truck Mayhem show.

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All aboard Delta flight survive after plane flips while landing in Toronto

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February 18, 2025

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www.wjtv.com – The Associated Press – 2025-02-18 05:00:00

SUMMARY: A Delta Air Lines flight from Minneapolis to Toronto flipped over while landing at Pearson Airport on February 17, 2025. All 80 passengers and crew survived, with 18 hospitalized for minor injuries. Blowing snow and high winds were reported at the time of landing. Passengers described a forceful landing, with one recalling the plane suddenly rolling sideways. Initial investigations indicated normal communications before the incident, and experts noted that the aircraft is designed to handle adverse weather. The Transportation Safety Board of Canada is investigating, particularly the missing right wing. No fatalities were reported.

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