On January 9, 2014, an estimated 10,000 gallons of a toxic chemical used to clean coal called Methylcyclohexanemethanol (MCHM) leaked from a storage tank into the Elk River.

The leak, which was just upstream of the West Virginia American Water intake and distribution center, contaminated the water supply for 300,000 West Virginians for days. We were told not to drink, bathe, or make formula with the water coming from our faucets — people were getting skin irritations, nausea, vomiting, and wheezing. It was the start of anxiety around daily water use across nine counties.

That was 10 years ago, but it was just the beginning of a movement for Clean Water for All.

After we learned about the chemical leak, our community didn’t stay silent. We spoke out, demanding accountability from Freedom Industries and WV American Water. Those were uncertain weeks, but we organized ourselves to ensure everyone had access to safe water. We rallied, mobilized resources, and stood together, showing the strength and the power of community action in safeguarding our well-being during that time.

On Tuesday, January 9, 2024, from 5 PM – 9 PM West Virginia Rivers Coalition and partners invite you to join us at the Culture Center in Charleston for “Clean Water For All: Reflecting on the 2014 Water Crisis and Shaping a Water-Secure Future.”

Please note that tickets are free, but required for entry, so be sure to reserve yours and encourage your friends and colleagues to join you!