Once a thriving center of Black entrepreneurship and cultural strength, Houston’s Fifth Ward now stands as a stark reminder of environmental neglect and corporate irresponsibility. Families who built their lives in this historic neighborhood are battling a crisis decades in the making—one tied to a toxic legacy of industrial pollution and a devastating cancer cluster.

For years, residents unknowingly lived near hazardous contamination stemming from a former Union Pacific rail yard, where creosote—a toxic wood preservative—leaked into the soil and water. Generations of families have suffered from unexplained illnesses, disproportionately high cancer rates, and birth defects. The recent revelations about the extent of the contamination have sparked an outcry from the community, demanding accountability, environmental cleanup, and justice.

A Community Fighting for Survival

Despite the mounting evidence linking creosote exposure to these health crises, affected families have struggled to receive the justice they deserve. Many recall the ever-present toxic smells of their childhood, unknowingly inhaling chemicals that would later devastate their health. Entire households have been wiped out by cancer, while others continue to battle severe illnesses without adequate medical resources.

The injustice extends beyond the health impact. The contamination has also fueled economic decline, driving down property values and stalling investment in a community that once flourished. Where Black-owned businesses once thrived, residents now see boarded-up homes, vacant lots, and fading memories of what used to be.

Watch the Full Story

The battle for Fifth Ward is ongoing, and awareness is key to driving change. Watch the full discussion to hear firsthand from residents, community leaders, and environmental experts. Their voices matter—let’s amplify them.