
- This event has passed.
This Lead is Killing Us: A History of Citizens Fighting Lead Poisoning in Their Communities

Date
Feb 12, 2024 - Mar 22, 2024
Time
All Day
Venue
University of Pittsburgh – Falk Library
Organizer
University of Pittsburgh
About the Exhibit:
This exhibit explores the story of citizen action taken against an environmental danger. Lead exposure can cause neurological problems and sometimes even death; yet this metal has been pervasive in many aspects of American life for over a century. Historically, mining, battery manufacturing, smelting, and enameling industries included lead in their production processes, impacting factory workers and consumers. Manufacturers added lead to household paints and gasoline, endangering the health of families and polluting the air through exhaust fumes. To protect themselves against the dangers of lead poisoning, scientists, families, and individuals opposed industries, housing authorities, and elected officials.
Many online resources are available to read further and learn more:
- Allegheny County Elevated Blood Lead Level Rates from the Western Pennsylvania Regional Data Center
- Exhibit website from the National Library of Medicine* featuring a digital gallery and lesson plan for Grades 9-10
- Get the Lead out Pittsburgh local public awareness campaign
- Many more via the link below
Information for Visitors:
We recommend allowing 30 minutes to review the exhibit content on display.
Falk Library is located on Pitt’s campus, in Alan Magee Scaife Hall. Please enter the building from Lothrop Street, and proceed to Floor M (Mezzanine), below Floor 3. Visitors will be received during library open hours.
All visitors to the exhibit with Pitt ID can enter to win a $25 Panera gift card.