About the Speakers:

 Susan Blacklin’s first memoir, Water Confidential: Witnessing Justice Denied. The Fight for Safe Drinking Water in Indigenous and Rural Communities in Canada, was selected by Congress of Humanities and is now included in Indigenous Studies curriculum in universities across Canada. It was also selected by the BC Department of Education for Social Studies and Science curriculum in grades 10 through 12. Susan’s second book, Call to Action, Water Justice: What You Don’t Know Could Kill You, is the result of readers of Water Confidential reaching out to her with present day concerns in towns and cities across Canada. In this book Susan is the messenger, sharing present day concerns identified by experts research, concerns, and recommendations. Susan co-founded the Safe Drinking Water Foundation and has volunteered tirelessly to help First Nation communities in their quest for truly safe drinking water. Susan now lives in Qualicum Beach on Vancouver Island and is a proud member of the National Council of Women of Canada. 

Meg Sears (PhD) has advanced environmental health for decades, and as Chair of Prevent Cancer Now she works to “make least-toxic the norm.” She was trained in Chemical Engineering and Applied Chemistry (University of Toronto) and biochemical engineering (PhD, McGill), and has diverse laboratory experience including energy research. With skills in scientific analysis and writing, she later gained associations with medical researchers. Some highlights include: the “Medical Perspective on Environmental Sensitivities" for the Canadian Human Rights Commission, leading to a policy under the Canadian Human Rights Act; a CIHR and SSHRC funded review of environmental, public health, and medical approaches for toxic elements; three guidance documents addressing toxicants, indoor environments, and COVID-19 with the Canadian Committee on Indoor Air Quality; and rich collaborations with Canadian environmental health and policy organizations.