The photo I’m holding, which I took, shows a poor air quality day in my home, the central San Joaquin Valley. On days like this, which happen far too frequently, kids, the elderly and other at-risk groups are encouraged to stay inside. My family, pictured here, and my community deserve clean air so we can spend time outside! We want to breathe clean air with our lungs—the only type of inhalers we should have to use.
Clean Air Ambassador | Madera, California
As a lifelong resident of the central San Joaquin Valley, I have lived in an area with poor air quality my entire life. As a registered nurse, I have witnessed many friends suffer from asthma, children unable to play sports to the best of their ability due to poor air quality, and many individuals with exacerbated breathing conditions. The air quality is quite literally visibly poor many days a year in the central San Joaquin Valley. The morning news will often announce air quality and the elderly, young children, and those with affected breathing conditions are encouraged to stay inside.
The central San Joaquin Valley has a strikingly beautiful spring time, but the air quality impairs some residents from enjoying the natural outdoor beauty. The ability to inhale a deep breath of fresh air should not be limited based on where you live, or the enjoyment of a playground on a summer's day should not be restricted for children.
Legislators, healthcare professionals, and the community as a whole must come together to provide an environment that is suitable for future generations.
The ability to inhale a deep breath of fresh air should not be limited based on where you live.
Messages of Support:
50 States United For Healthy Air
Clean air should be a fundamental right. Air pollution causes asthma attacks, lung disease, and even death. But our bodies don't have to be the dumping ground for dirty industries.
The technology to dramatically reduce harmful air pollution is available today, and major polluters should be required to use it.
Clean Air Ambassadors from every state are sending a powerful message: Everyone has a right to breathe clean, healthy air.
It’s time Congress and the EPA used their ears to help our lungs.