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MPHA board and staff, like so many of you, were shocked and outraged to learn that children were being separated from their parents at our nation's southern border. In addition to instilling
fear and anxiety in immigrant communities across the country, the federal government's cruel policy of tearing children from their families inflicts trauma that can have a
lifelong negative impact on the child's health.
Though this policy has officially ended, we must remain vigilant to ensure that all children are reunited with their families and that people coming to the United States seeking hope and asylum are treated with respect and dignity.
We must also send a strong message here in Massachusetts that all immigrants are welcome and that their rights will be protected. Earlier this year, MPHA endorsed the
Safe Communities Act, a bill that will
protect the civil rights, safety, and well-being of all residents by drawing a clear line between immigration enforcement and public safety.
Click here
to take action for safe communities now--it will take less than a minute.
With all that is happening at the national level, our work together to promote social justice and reduce health disparities has never been more important. Please join me, the MPHA Board, and other health equity advocates in
Boston or Worcester this summer to reconnect and to envision what we can accomplish together in the months and years ahead.
Lastly, please read below for updates and
announcements
on MPHA policy priorities--things are moving quickly as the formal session nears the July 31st deadline!
Thank you for all that you do for justice and health equity.
In partnership,
Carlene Pavlos
Executive Director
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