Photos courtesy of Rep. Summer Lee’s office.
Residents packed the Forest Hills Municipal Building on Tuesday to take part in an environmental forum there hosted by state Rep. Summer Lee—and GASP was honored to be among those asked to present.
The event kicked off with an update from Lee, D-34th Legislative District, who provided an update on legislation regarding environmental issues, and was followed by presentations from several panelists.
GASP’s executive director Rachel Filippini provided information about air quality, educating those in attendance about everything from what’s in the air, to how to make a complaint about poor air quality.
Other panelists included Patricia DeMarco, of Forest Hills Borough Council and professor of biology and environmental studies; Jonathan Reyes, of North Braddock Resident for Our Future; Megan McDonough, of Food and Water Watch; and Dr. Deborah Gentile, researcher and esteemed expert on pediatric asthma.
Folks who attended were also given the opportunity to ask questions and share their opinions on environmental issues ranging from fracking to air pollution.
GASP Executive Director Rachel Filippini lauded Lee and those who attended.
“It’s refreshing to see legislators taking the lead on environmental issues of paramount importance to not only their constituents but people across Allegheny County. We thank Rep. Summer Lee for being a needed voice for our community,” Filippini said. “Equally refreshing was the robust turnout. Residents who are informed and engaged are a key ingredient to changing our area’s lackluster performance when it comes to air quality.”