In 2014, the city of Flint, Michigan made the decision to switch its water source to the Flint River in an effort to save money. Unfortunately, this decision turned out to be a grave mistake. The river water corroded the city’s ageing pipes, causing lead to seep into the water supply. This crisis left thousands of residents without access to clean drinking water and exposed them to serious health risks. The city was declared in a state of emergency, and national attention turned to the plight of Flint’s residents.
One of those concerned citizens was an eight-year-old girl named Mari Copeny, who lived in Flint with her mother and siblings. When she learned that the water in her own home was contaminated with lead, she decided to take action. Mari wrote a letter to President Obama asking for help, and soon her letter went viral. She became known as “Little Miss Flint.”
In her letter, Mari wrote:
“Dear President Obama, my name is Mari Copeny, and I’m eight years old. I live in Flint, Michigan, and I’m more commonly known around town as ‘Little Miss Flint.’ I am one of the children that are [affected] by this water, and I’ve been doing my best to march in protest and to speak out for all the kids that live here in Flint. This Thursday I will be riding a bus to Washington, D.C. to watch the congressional hearings of our Governor Rick Snyder. I know this is probably an odd request, but I would love a chance to meet you or your wife. My mom said chances are you will be too busy with more important things, but there are a lot of people coming on these buses, and even just a meeting from you or your wife would really lift people’s spirits. Thank you for all that you do for our country. I look forward to being able to come to Washington and to be able to see Gov. Snyder in person and to be able to be in the city where you live.”
Mari’s letter caught the attention of President Obama and his administration. In response, the president visited Flint in 2016 and met with Mari and other residents affected by the crisis. He also declared a state of emergency, which enabled federal aid to be sent to the city.
But Mari’s activism didn’t end there. She continued to be a vocal advocate for clean water and social justice issues, using her platform to raise awareness and call for change. She has spoken at rallies, met with politicians, and even appeared on national television to share her message.
In 2018, Mari organized a Christmas toy drive for children affected by the crisis. By collecting thousands of toys and distributing them to families in need, she infused a sense of joy and hope into a community that has endured significant hardship.
Mari’s activism has not gone unnoticed. In 2018, she was named one of the 25 most influential teens by Time Magazine. She has also been recognized by other organizations for her work, including the NAACP and the Women’s March.
Mari remains focused on her mission of fighting for clean water and justice. She continues to speak out and work towards a future where all people have access to safe drinking water and equal opportunities.
Mari Copeny’s story is a reminder that anyone, regardless of age, can make a difference. Her passion, courage, and dedication inspire others to take action and fight for what is right. She has shown that one person’s voice can make a difference and that together, we can create a better world for all.
