This past year has shown us: Public health is critical. That’s why I am excited to get involved in this year’s National Public Health Week, celebrated April 5-11. We know that public health is more than a single topic; it’s countless issues and practices that helping every American to live as long and as well as they can. This year, I’m joining the American Public Health Association in focusing on the theme of Building Bridges to Public Health. While we may be physically distant from each other, it’s now more important than ever to come together and work toward building well-being and health equity in our communities.
So how can you get involved?
- Celebrate and reinforce gratitude for public health.
- Look for ways to strengthen our communities. We know that communities of color are often the hardest hit by health crises, and COVID-19 is no exception. Coupled with the twin pandemic of racism, it is public health’s role to dismantle the systems that harm people’s health.
- Shine a light on our country’s elevated mental health crisis by reaching out to loved ones and sharing helpful stress and anxiety resources on social media.
- Hold accountable those responsible for climate change.
- Urge your elected leaders to prioritize families by advancing policies for paid sick leave and a living wage.
- There are countless ways to make your voice heard and become part of the movement for public health.
Learn more about this year’s daily themes and don’t forget to RSVP for April 7’s Twitter chat. It’s an open dialogue on how to innovatively approach public health. You can also check out NPHW fact sheets and other ways you can keep the momentum going in your community.
Until then, stay engaged, active and safe as we join virtually and work toward a brighter, healthier future.