In recent days, we have seen an
eruption of awareness and outrage at the deep systemic racism that underlies police brutality in this country. P
ublic health leaders stand with civil rights advocates, political leaders, and community activists in calling for change. This change must include an equitable plan for our state's reopening, because the long history and current reality of structural racism also underlies the
devastating impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on communities of color.
Tomorrow morning, MPHA and the Task Force on Coronavirus and Equity will be joined by coalitions and organizations -- including the Black Boston COVID-19 Coalition, the Massachusetts Coalition for Health Equity, the Massachusetts Coalition for Occupational Safety and Health, Massachusetts Senior Action Council and dozens of others -- to issue a call for the state to meet four criteria before we move to Phase Two of the Governor's reopening plan.
We hope you will join us for a virtual press conference on Thursday 6/4 at 9:00 AM, where we will be releasing these criteria. To register, click here.
We know that employment is a critical social determinant of health. We're eager to have our businesses reopen as soon as possible -- to see our Main Streets thriving once again, workers receiving wages and benefits, and a strengthening of our battered economy.
But we will not accept a reopening that takes place at the expense of workers, particularly the low-wage Black and Latinx essential workers who are already at increased risk of infection.
Please join us
on Thursday as we call on Governor Baker to make equity the centerpiece of our state's reopening plan.
With gratitude for your support and partnership,
