This photo captures a student’s reaction when told about the problem of lead in drinking water. Typically, these issues are not voiced. However, in 2016, 137 New Jersey public schools have experienced lead contaminating their drinking water outlets. Schools in Newark have experienced this issue the most. After TCNJ students, Helene Lewis and Kyle Bailey, were told of this issue, it made them realize how lucky they are to have clean drinking water at their dining hall. Lead can get into drinking water by leaking out of old service lines and entering through pipes that transport the drinking water. The effects of lead are serious. It directly impairs the body’s nervous system, cardiovascular system, kidney functions, and the reproductive system in both males and females. The effects can be more fatal for babies and younger children. This issue is obviously not known enough among the general public. That needs to change and actions need to happen to prevent lead entering our water.

taken by Julia