Bioneers 2026 Conference

Fighting for the Human Right to Water in the U.S.

Co-hosted by the Pacific Institute

The UN formally recognizes the human right to water and sanitation, but in the U.S. today more than two million people still live without running water or safe plumbing, and tens of millions more face chronic water quality violations, supply disruptions or unaffordable bills. These challenges cut across the country from poor urban neighborhoods and rural communities to tribal nations, and they fall hardest on people of color, low-income households, and other marginalized groups. And climate change is magnifying these inequities, but even amidst these challenges, communities and leaders across the country are advancing practical solutions and building grassroots power to protect and expand the right to water. This panel brings together water justice activists from across the country who will share on-the-ground stories, policy insights, and emerging models for change and explore what it will take to finally realize the human right to water for all. Hosted by Heather Cooley, Chief Research and Program Officer, Pacific Institute. With: Morgan Shimabuku, Senior Research Specialist, Pacific Institute; Dr. Khalid Osman, Assistant Professor, Stanford University; Monica Lewis-Patrick, President and CEO, We the People of Detroit.

March 27th | 3:00 pm to 4:15 pm

Panelists


Morgan Shimabuku
Senior Research Specialist
Pacific Institute
Monica Lewis-Patrick
President and CEO
We the People of Detroit
Heather Cooley
Chief Research and Program Officer
Pacific Institute
Khalid Osman
Assistant Professor
Stanford University
Bioneers Conference
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