Sustainable Development is local Development as well as Global Development

Global Goal, Local Leaders. Now more than ever, the local leaders include community leaders, concerned citizens and advocates. These leaders are not elected but they are extremely influential in changes on local, national and global levels.  As a Global Goals Ambassador for SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation, a resident of Michigan and the Advocacy Chairperson for UNA-USA Greater Detroit , I am committed to the fulfillment of the SDGs.

In 2014, Detroit Water and Sewage Department (DWSD) turned off water for over twenty thousands residents. Also in 2014, the Flint water crisis unfolded. After intensive and significant rainfall, the Edenville and Sanford Dams burst in Midland Michigan in 2020. Heavy rains frequently cause flooding throughout the state of Michigan. Each of these situations results in other concerns in addition to clean water and sanitation. They include but are not limited to: SDG #3, Good Health and Well-Being; SDG #9 Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure; and SDG # 13 Climate Action. These issues are not unique to Michigan. For example, Hurricane Ida swept through the east coast causing water damage and flooding.  We must aggressively face climate change and adhere to The Paris Agreement.

We must hold our elected leaders accountable and our local and global communities accountable each day to come together to implement the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals adopted by the United Nations Members in 2015.

The future of our communities, country and world starts with each of us. Build Back Better. We must educate ourselves and spread the word. I challenge everyone to lobby their elected officials to support the SDG’s and practice safe practices.