The damages done to the air, water, and soil over the past century are beginning to reap toxic fruit throughout this country and the world. Problems such as the increase of asthma and leukemia, the rise in some forms of cancer, the climbing rates of infertility and miscarriage, birth defects, diseases resulting from lead poisoning and food poisoning all can be traced, at least in part, to environmental contamination. People of color, young children, the elderly, and the very poor of all races are the ones most likely to be affected by the deadliest of environmental abuses. Life and health are always God's will for creation. The faithful people of God are called to the ministries of health and healing.
Devastating racism causes people of color to be the most vulnerable to many health hazards.
We are called to put a stop to bigotry. Our very earth, home to all God's creatures, is in grave danger of dying from human abuse and neglect. Whoever welcomes one such child in my name welcomes me. Toxic substances, contaminated soil, polluted air and water, and unsafe food can threaten children's health and their future. In order to protect children's health, the public needs more information about the risks and dangers of specific products.