Water Confidential by Qualicum Beach author Susan Blacklin chronicles the fight for access to safe drinking water in First Nations and rural communities across Canada.
The book recounts the impactful legacy of her late ex-husband, Dr. Hans Peterson, according to a news release.
“Driven by a pivotal visit to Yellow Quill First Nation in 1996, where he witnessed the dire need for safe drinking water, Peterson developed groundbreaking biological technology for water treatment,” the release said.
Peterson and Blacklin (formerly Sue Peterson) founded the Safe Drinking Water Foundation (SDWF), pioneering education programs nationwide and advocating for equitable access to clean water.
Despite their efforts, three decades later, many First Nations communities in Canada still grapple with health crises due to contaminated water.
Blacklin, now retired, stressed the urgent need for federal water regulations and scientific integrity in addressing water quality issues.
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Through her memoir, Blacklin shares the challenges of fundraising, activism and navigating bureaucratic hurdles.
She underscores the importance of prioritizing safe water for Indigenous communities as a cornerstone of reconciliation efforts in Canada, highlighting the intricate dynamics between cultures and governments.
The book’s foreword was written by Warren Goulding, Erin Poochay and John O’Connor.
Water Confidential will be released on March 22, World Water Day.
It is published by Caitlin Press and is available for pre-order online.
A book launch is scheduled for March 21 from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Rotary House (211 Fern Rd.) in Qualicum Beach.
To reserve a seat, contact the Mulberry Book Store at 250-752-9722 or mulberryqb@shawbiz.ca.
— NEWS Staff