The rapid expansion of data centers across America is intensifying health disparities in Black communities already burdened by environmental pollution. Representative Justin Pearson and Dr. Sacoby Wilson highlight how these facilities concentrate in neighborhoods with residents who face disproportionate exposure to toxic emissions.
Boxtown, a Memphis community founded by formerly enslaved people, illustrates this pattern. The neighborhood hosts 18 polluting facilities, resulting in cancer rates four times the national average. The surrounding area ranks second nationally for asthma-related emergency room visits and seventh for asthma-related deaths.
When xAI built a massive data center nearby, conditions deteriorated further. Researchers found nitrogen dioxide levels—a major asthma trigger—jumped 79% near the facility and 9% in Boxtown itself. The company deployed methane-fueled turbines without proper permits to power operations.
This follows historical patterns of environmental racism. Black Americans are 75% more likely than others to live near hazardous waste facilities due to redlining and discriminatory policies. People of color breathe more particulate air pollution across all regions and income levels.
Children in high-pollution areas suffer more asthma and miss more school days, creating ripple effects on family income and economic opportunity. Research confirms that living near pollution sources like data centers, highways, and industrial facilities directly contributes to higher rates of respiratory disease and chronic health conditions.
Local residents are fighting back through Memphis Community Against Pollution, partnering with researchers to monitor air quality and pursue legal action against harmful facilities.
See: “Data Centers Threaten Black Communities — Here’s How to Fight Back” (November 19, 2025)
