THE MALDEN ADVOCATE–Friday, July 31, 2026 Page 5 ~ Letter to the Editor ~ PFAS (Forever Chemicals) is a major issue in Malden A s a resident of Malden, and a student at Malden High School, I am deeply concerned about widespread exposure to PFAS, commonly known as “forever chemicals.” These toxic chemicals are found in many everyday household products such as raincoats, non-stick cookware, and even cosmetics. Exposure to PFAS is widespread and deeply concerning. Pregnant women can be exposed to PFAS through contaminated water and everyday products like non-stick materials, while young children are exposed through toys and household items. For young children especially, PFAS exposure has been linked to impacts on brain development, including learning ability, language delays, behavioral challenges, and weakened immune responses. Through my participation in the Clean Water Fund Youth Action Collaborative (YAC) at Malden High School, my peers and I are raising awareness by sharing information that helps people to identify products containing PFAS and understand their health risks. These chemicals have been linked to developmental challenges in children, weakened immune systems, and long-term health impacts. Since PFAS do not break down, they accumulate in our bodies over time. PFAS are persistent toxic chemicals that stay in our bodies forever, yet companies are not required to fully disclose their use. This is not just a personal responsibility issue; it is a policy failure! Massachusetts legislators must act now to pass legislation that bans non-essential uses of PFAS, phases out PFASbased firefighting foam, requires clear labeling, and holds companies accountable. This is preventable, and our communities deserve better! Sincerely, Delmy Arevalo. Malden High School Student Clean Water Fund’s Youth Action Collaborative (YAC) participant Local student receives degree from Quinnipiac University A ntonia Bilodeau, of Malden, received a Bachelor of Science in Health Science/OT during commencement ceremonies held in May. About Quinnipiac University: Quinnipiac is a private, coeducational institution locatSTUDENT | FROM PAGE 1 Leadership Award for his work advocating for climate justice. A graduate of Clean Water Action & Clean Water Fund’s Youth Action Collaborative, Kidus has spent the past year expanding youth coalitions, rallying young leaders and lobbying legislators for climate action. On June 11, his activism was honored during Clean Water Action & Clean Water Fund’s annual event, Build the Future, at the Multicultural Arts Center in Cambridge. “Kidus exemplifies the values of the Youth Action Collaborative. He is applying the organizing skills he learned at YAC and proudly representing his hometown while advocating for climate and environmental justice from his town hall to the State House,” said Clean Water Action & Clean Water Fund’s Youth Engagement Program Manager, ed in Hamden, Connecticut. The university enrolls 9,700 students in more than 100 degree programs through its Schools of Business, Communications, Education, Computing and Engineering, Health Sciences, Law, Medicine, NursOmesa Mokaya. Kidus was a featured speaker at the Massachusetts Youth Climate Lobby Day and supported fellow Malden High School students in meetings with legislators. In addition to his work in state coalitions, Kidus continues to mentor the next cohort of Youth Action Collaborative students. In his own words, “I contribute to setting youth-led climate agendas throughout Massachusetts. This involves organizing, strategy, and ensuring that youth actually have a voice, not just representation.” Since the founding of Clean Water Action during the campaign to pass the landmark Clean Water Act in 1972, the organization has worked to win strong health and environmental protections by bringing issue expertise, solution-oriented thinking and people power to the table. ing and the College of Arts & Sciences. Quinnipiac is expanding innovative programs for both traditional and adult learners and developing dynamic corporate partnerships. For more information, please visit qu.edu. Like us on Facebook advocate newspaper Facebook.com/Advocate.news.ma “WE’RE STILL HERE!” Since 1947 MALDEN AUTO BODY Book online: Maldenauto.com 49 Robin St., Everett, MA 617-389-3030 * Maldenab@yahoo.com Over 79 years of exceptional service! Massone Family Owned & Operated Lawrence A. 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