Show Notes

This week, we focus on a community facing two crises at once. For weeks now, we have been told that washing our hands is our number one defence against COVID-19. But imagine being in Canada or the United States, arguably two of the most advanced countries in the world, and not having the water to put this mainline defence in motion.

During this episode, we check in with George McGraw, founder of DigDeep and the Navajo Water Project, to discuss how a lack of water resources puts vulnerable communities, like the Navajo Nation, at even greater risk during a crisis. We’ll also talk about a new study that will hopefully help better direct future infrastructure efforts in the US – and perhaps help spur similar actions in Canada.

Ways to help are linked below. Stay safe. Be well. ♡

Today’s Guest

George McGraw, CEO, Dig Deep

George McGraw, founder of DIG Deep and the Navajo Water Project, works on a sink installation with a young member of the Navajo Community

Today’s guest first joined our show in 2014 to discuss the mass water shutoffs taking place in the City of Detroit – he’s an advocate for water security and human rights. Some of you may know him from the 4L Water Challenge, where he challenged the public to live off of no more than 4L’s of water a day to raise awareness and funds to fight the water crisis that many marginalized communities now face in the United States. George is the founder of Dig Deep – and The Navajo Water Project, a community-managed utility alternative that brings hot and cold running water to homes without access to water or sewer lines. To donate to this vital cause, please visit the NavajoWaterProject.org

In 2019, DigDeep and the US Water Alliance completed the first national study of the existing water-access gap in the United States. You can download a copy of the report at https://closethewatergap.org/