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Dear neighbor,
I am disappointed to see the Minnesota State Legislature take a step and action to strip healthcare from undocumented immigrant adults while pushing to write blanket checks for corporations. Balancing the budget on the back of immigrant communities only inflames the tension our neighbors are feeling during these difficult times and will increase health disparities. Not only are these actions morally wrong, but they are fiscally irresponsible, shortsighted, and cruel. Healthcare is a human right regardless of immigration status, disabilities, income, who you love, and who you are. These are not the values Minneapolis residents and the people of Minnesota hold.
Senate Majority Leader Erin Murphy, Speaker Emerita Melissa Hortman, and Governor Tim Walz offered this action on a silver platter to those hoping to strip away the rights from our immigrant community. Instead of showing political courage and standing up for our immigrant neighbors, they obeyed in advance and are complicit in stripping healthcare away from our loved ones.
I am thinking of our neighbors, families, loved ones, and those whose lifelines are being cut and being used as bargaining chips. Sadly, what we are seeing at the federal level by the Trump Administration has now come home to Minnesota.
Last month, I went public about my father’s cancer diagnosis, in hopes of putting a face on those who will be affected by this decision. But my family’s story is the same as those across the state. People with cancer, diabetes, and health complications will be severely impacted. A lack of critical and prevention care will only worsen health outcomes for residents.
Unfortunately, the Minnesota House of Representatives just passed this measure. Senate Majority Leader Erin Murphy is expected to spearhead this bill across the finish line on behalf of the State Senate and Governor Walz is expected to sign this bill into law. I still ask you to make calls to your elected officials, including the Governor, in hopes of changing minds and holding those in power accountable.
I’m disappointed that healthcare access is no longer a priority of the State Legislature. I am proud that the POCI Caucus pushed back in support of our community. Make no mistake, this action decides who gets to live and who gets to die. This bill will tear families apart. As we saw this past weekend, the presence of ICE and federal agents on Lake and Bloomington traumatized our community. This bill is the nail in the coffin that our community did not need. You have my commitment to continue supporting our communities during these difficult times.
Sincerely,
Jason Chavez |
