Parents at P.S. 176 protested due to concerns that ongoing construction might have exposed students to asbestos. Many were unaware of the potential health risks. Organizer Andres Juarez has been trying to hold school officials accountable for transparency regarding the construction and its dangers. Asbestos exposure is linked to serious health issues, including lung cancer. The New York City government has been criticized for failing to adhere to asbestos management standards, raising concerns about student safety amid ongoing construction at the school.
"I can't sleep over this," said Luisa, a P.S. 176 mom who helped organize the demonstration. (Some parents' identities have been protected for fear of retaliation.)
"The entire situation at P.S. 176 could've been handled very differently from the start," Juarez said. "Ms. Culkin could've been transparent and forthcoming with everyone about the school construction and all of its associated dangers. No parent should have to go through the great lengths that I did in order to get a response."
"Our first job in government is to keep New Yorkers secure," Lander said. "When it comes to our kids, the City must adhere to the rules designed to protect them from known hazards - this is not optional. Yet DOE has stunningly failed to follow the minimum national standard for asbestos management for years."
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