This year’s Harris Common Read delves into one of the greatest dereliction of duties in modern political history. What the Eyes Don’t See by Dr. Mona Hanna-Attisha is a firsthand account of the Flint water crisis and its effect on countless lives, revealing how misguided policies, failed democracy, and bureaucratic indifference placed an entire city at risk.

A pediatrician and social advocate, and the daughter of Iraqi immigrants, Dr. Hanna-Attisha chronicles her fight to help the residents of Flint, Michigan, through the use of science, medicine, and activism that eventually gained international attention – but only after experiencing much personal strife.

“While environmental policy is at the forefront, this book beautifully intersects environmental conditions and socioeconomic status, while shedding light on the effects of policy choices on underserved communities,” said Michelle Hoereth, Director of Diversity & Inclusion at Harris. “We want all incoming students to gain an appreciation for diverse backgrounds, perspectives, and individual stories, and to critically dissect the issues presented in the book’s pages.”

A part of Harris' commitment to diversity and inclusion, The Common Read was carefully selected by Harris’ 2020 Orientation Leaders in consultation with the Diversity and Inclusion Office. All returning students, faculty, and staff are encouraged to participate in the Common Read before the start of the academic year and contribute to discussions that will occur throughout the school year. Ebooks will be made available soon to members of the Harris community interested in participating.