To the editor: 

(Plain Press, January 2021)    In March of 2021, a law will go into effect requiring landlords who own rental properties in the city of Cleveland to certify that those properties are lead safe. The law is necessary because some landlords and realtor associations are willing to allow families to rent lead toxic properties rather than investing a few dollars in lead safety. March 2021 is approaching fast. We must stay engaged in order to hold slum landlords accountable and protect our children.  It’s time to stand up and protect their children!

     On average, four children in the city of Cleveland, Ohio are diagnosed with lead poisoning every day. Childhood lead poisoning causes health, learning and behavioral deficits. In adults, childhood lead exposure can result in kidney problems, high blood-pressure, and heart attacks.

     According to a study conducted by the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, victims of childhood lead poisoning are significantly more likely to harm their neighbors with gun violence. Victims of childhood lead poisoning are also significantly more likely to fall victim to gun violence.

     In the effort to uplift and revitalize Cleveland neighborhoods, addressing the current childhood lead poisoning epidemic will be a critical part of the equation.  

     Imagine a future with less suffering, fewer tax dollars wasted, less gun violence.

     Imagine how much happier we would all be if landlords and realty associations would adhere to the laws of common decency; instead of using financial incentives – in the form of campaign donations – to derail the efforts of lead safe housing advocates.

     If you have questions about lead-poisoning or problems with your landlord, please do not hesitate to T-E-X-T your first name, last name, phone number and question to BLACK LIVES MATTER in Cuyahoga County at 440-915-8998.

Jeff Mixon, President

Black Lives Matter in Cuyahoga County