The COVID-19 pandemic continues to wreak havoc, disrupting lives and fueling anxiety. During this time, we must continue to remind our elected leaders at the local, state and national levels of their responsibility to act swiftly, with care and compassion, as they address the pandemic and its economic repercussions. To this end, the faith community has put together the following principles that should be considered in any legislation, policy or governmental decisions that address the COVID-19 crisis:
- Ensure accessible and affordable testing and treatment for COVID-19, regardless of income, location, disability, or immigration status.
- Ensure that all can take sick leave and care for family members without risking their jobs or paychecks.
- Ensure low-income workers and individuals who are economically at risk have the assistance they need to put food on the table and provide for their families.
- Ensure that special care and attention is given to individuals at increased risk of infection, including individuals in prison, immigrants and children in detention, in long-term care facilities, and those experiencing homelessness.
- Ensure that economic measures focus on low-income and vulnerable communities. Bailouts and emergency assistance for major industries and businesses must be paired with comparable assistance for economically at-risk workers and vulnerable individuals.
Time is of the essence. Add your name to this petition to ensure that decision-makers at all levels help the people most at risk during this challenging time.