Childrenism

In 2014, UPAL coined the term childrenism after the city of Petersburg, VA, failed to implement a $1.1 million HUD grant resulting in the grant funds being rescinded and several children being poisoned by lead.

We define childrenism as the systematic discrimination against children, gross negligence, gross dereliction of one’s responsibility to children, and practical opposition to the safety and wellness of children with willful disregard and failure to protect children in one's charge. #childlivesmatter!

Sergio Gray

Sergio Gray was poisoned by lead in Norfolk, Virginia, in 1991. After many years of minimal treatment, he was, at the tender age of 18, sentenced to 40 years in prison. Lead poisoning has always been linked to juvenile delinquency, criminal delinquency, violent crimes, and impulsive behavior. Lead’s grip on Sergio is no different. The year Sergio was poisoned, several other babies in the same apartment building were also severely poisoned, one to the point of death.

UPAL actively works with Sergio’s mother, Mrs. Roycinda Alexander, to secure his release. On her behalf, we contacted the National Clemency Project, Inc. and learned that $1,750 is needed to enlist their assistance for Sergio's release. Please get in touch with UPAL today to learn how you can support our efforts to free Sergio.

UPAL has joined advocacy efforts around FULL Lead Service Lines Replacements across the country. We are partnered with other organizations dedicated to protecting children's health. Remember Flint, and stay tuned for updates as UPAL further engages in this work.

In this episode, listeners will hear from the Executive Director of the Virginia Environmental Justice Collaborative, Queen Zakia Shabazz, who will share about their work to address the impacts of climate change and racial inequity on communities in the state of Virginia.

Click Here to Read