Truthout is a vital news source and a living history of political struggle. If you think our work is valuable, support us with a donation of any size.

Air quality around the Washington, D.C. area declined dramatically on Sunday, one day after a massive fireworks display was put on for the United States’ 250th birthday celebration.

The worst air quality ratings were recorded near neighborhoods with the highest populations of Black people, one reporter noted.

In an attempt to create a record-breaking performance, the Trump administration announced that it would launch around 850,000 fireworks for the event, much higher than the typical 17,000-20,000 that are launched on Independence Day in the nation’s capital each year. Days before the event was set to take place, internal documents from the National Park Service (NPS) revealed that the administration was aware the display could be harmful to residents, producing “very unhealthy” air, and that exposure to the outdoors should be limited after the show.

Air readings on Sunday revealed a “purple” rating for areas of Washington and parts of northern Virginia. Such a rating means that people with air sensitivities should not go outside at all. Even individuals without such concerns are advised against prolonged activities outside. Other areas surrounding D.C. received “orange” alerts, again alerting those with sensitivities against engaging in outdoor activities for prolonged periods.

The........

© Truthout