By TTF Intern, Martiney Robinson
My name is Martiney, and I’m excited to join TTF this Winter as an intern! I go to Sankofa Freedom Academy Charter School, and as part of my senior year, I have the opportunity to complete a research project. My project focuses on the question: “What are the environmental and social factors that contribute to higher rates of lead exposure in Black communities, and how can they be addressed?” Through this research, I aim to explore the root causes of lead exposure, its impact on public health, and the steps that can be taken to create safer living conditions for affected communities.
I chose this topic because of what I’ve seen growing up. Some neighborhoods have clean water, fresh food, and better housing, while others, especially Black communities, are stuck dealing with old, unsafe infrastructure. I started paying more attention to the issue when I noticed how different neighborhoods had different water quality, and I wanted to figure out why. The deeper I looked, the more I realized how serious the problem is.
I’ve always been interested in how cities and neighborhoods are built. I want to be an architect so I can help design safer, healthier communities. Too many Black neighborhoods are filled with crumbling buildings, lead pipes, and outdated housing. I want to change that by creating spaces that are not only beautiful but also safe for the people living there. Architecture isn’t just about designing buildings, it’s about shaping the future, and I want to make sure that future is one where every community has access to clean water and a healthy environment.
This project isn’t just about research, it’s about real people and real lives. I want to help spread awareness, push for change, and make sure that no community is left behind when it comes to having safe water, clean homes, and a healthy future.
Would you like to volunteer with TTF? Visit our Intern page.
