The International Campaign for Justice in Bhopal, North America invites messages/actions of solidarity in preparation for the 30th anniversary of the Bhopal gas disaster.
ICJB is a coalition of disaster survivors’ groups, environmental and social justice groups dedicated to holding the Indian Government and the Dow Chemical Company accountable for the ongoing chemical disaster in Bhopal, India. Our commitment to ensuring justice in Bhopal is a commitment to a toxic-free future for all.
It will soon be three decades since the people of Bhopal were exposed to 40 tons of methyl isocyanate and other undisclosed chemical gases due to the negligence of the Union Carbide Corporation (UCC), which is now owned by the Dow Chemical Company. When Dow purchased UCC, they inherited UCCs legal liabilities; however, Dow denies all responsibility for the disaster. This is despite their accepting UCCs outstanding liabilities in the U.S. This is a clear example of corporate double standards.
The disaster, which has claimed over 25,000 lives to date, currently affects over 500,000. Chronic health problems stemming from initial exposure and widespread soil/groundwater contamination continue to plague survivors. UCC became aware of impending soil/groundwater contamination as far back as 1982; however, they did not take any action. Moreover, the inter-generational impact of the toxins has resulted in higher rates of developmental disabilities and congenital malformations amongst the children of gas-affected and contaminated water-affected persons. Despite this, survivors have continued to fight for justice for almost 30 years.
The Bhopal gas disaster, as well as the slew of chemical disasters impacting communities around the world reminds us of the need for people-power to hold corporate-power accountable. We recognize that coming together and forming global solidarity networks is a crucial next step to building people-power. We invite individuals and groups to join us in solidarity with this soon-to-be 30 year struggle.
A few ways you can show your solidarity:
a) Screen the acclaimed documentary “Bhopali” (http://www.bhopalithemovie.com/)
b) Invite a speaker/survivor from the International Campaign for Justice in Bhopal to engage with your group/community.
c) Post a public message of solidarity with ICJB and the survivors’ struggle.
d) If you are an educator, teach your students about the Bhopal gas disaster. We are happy to provide you with a reading list and resource materials for your lessons.
e) Organize other solidarity actions, such as a peaceful protest in front of your local Indian embassy/Dow office.
If you are interested in getting involved, have other ideas or want more information, please get in touch. We are happy to help you in planning, organizing and executing any of the actions you may want to be involved in.
For information, please contact:
Reena Shadaan
Community Relations Officer
The International Campaign for Justice in Bhopal, North America
reena.shadaan@icjb.org