Understanding Water Rights and Personhood

Kelsey Leonard discusses the importance of recognizing water as a living entity deserving legal personhood. She highlights historical injustices faced by Indigenous peoples and the current global water crises. Leonard argues for a transformation in how we value water, advocating for legal rights similar to those granted to corporations. She provides examples of successful legal personhood for water bodies and calls for action to protect water for future generations.

What historical injustice did Indigenous peoples face in the United States regarding citizenship?

• They were not allowed to own land.

• They were not considered citizens until 1924.

• They were denied the right to vote until 1965.

• They were not allowed to practice their religion.

What does the prophecy mentioned by Nokomis predict about the future of water?

• Water will become more abundant.

• Water will be free for everyone.

• An ounce of water will cost more than an ounce of gold.

• Water will no longer be necessary for life.

Which city experienced a 'Day Zero' water crisis in 2018?

• Palm Springs, California

• Chennai, India

• Cape Town, South Africa

• Flint, Michigan

What is the strongest predictor of water and sanitation access in the United States?

• Race

• Education level

• Geographic location

• Income level

What legal status is proposed for water to help protect it?

• Water should be considered a public utility.

• Water should be taxed.

• Water should be granted legal personhood.

• Water should be privatized.

What rights would legal personhood grant to water?

• The right to be owned by corporations.

• The right to be used for industrial purposes.

• The right to exist, flourish, and naturally evolve.

• The right to be sold and traded.

Which river in New Zealand was granted legal personhood in 2017?

• The Amazon River

• The Nile River

• The Whanganui River

• The Mississippi River

What action can individuals take to help protect water?

• Advocate for legal personhood for water.

• Rely solely on government solutions.

• Use as much water as possible.

• Ignore local water issues.

What is a key step in restoring our connection to water?

• Ignoring water conservation efforts.

• Using water only for industrial purposes.

• Avoiding water bodies.

• Learning about Indigenous lands and waters.

What is the ultimate goal of granting legal personhood to water?

• To allow corporations to own water.

• To ensure water is available for future generations.

• To increase water prices.

• To reduce water quality standards.