Detroit’s Water System Is Falling Apart. Your City Could Be Next.

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Autocratic forces are ascendant.

Truth-telling independent media is one remaining bulwark against an autocrat’s unrestrained exercise of power. At a time when billionaire owners of corporate media are making accommodations to political leaders, our nonprofit newsroom cannot be bought, bent, or broken. Depend on it, and please stand with us.

Autocratic forces are ascendant in America. But truth-telling independent media is one remaining bulwark against the unrestrained exercise of power. At a time when billionaire owners of corporate media are making accommodations to political leaders, our nonprofit newsroom cannot be bought or broken. Please stand with us.

This story was originally published by Grist, and appears here as part of the Climate Desk collaboration.

In 2014, United Nations officials sharply criticized Detroit’s practice of shutting off water for residents who couldn’t pay their bills. This year, more than 18,000 residents have been at risk of losing their access. How did Detroit get here? Watch the video above to find out and hear the stories of Detroit residents.