( ENSPIRE Community Spotlight ) ACT UP NY Raises Awareness For HIV/AIDS
December is a month of remembrance of raising awareness for HIV/AIDS, but also a renewed call to arms. Legendary activist group ACT UP NY (AIDS Coalition to Unleash Power) is launching a powerful campaign called “HealthGate.” Founded in 1987, this diverse, non-partisan group united to commit to direct action to end the AIDS crisis. The deadline looms for Congress to potentially allow the expiration of Affordable Care Act subsidies. This can lead to $1.7 billion in cuts to HIV/AIDS funding. The “HealthGate” campaign was released on December 1st, featuring a poster that highlights Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr.’s contributions to the health crisis. ACT UP NY is calling for the implementation of the New York Health Act and sustained funding for public and global health.
The New York Health Act is a state bill that will guarantee comprehensive healthcare for all New Yorkers and save billions. It can eliminate premiums, copays, deductibles, and the source of medical debt. Furthermore, New York is ready to pass comprehensive single-payer health care that’ll cover all New Yorkers. Regardless of immigration status or pre-existing conditions, it is available at a lower cost than current coverage. A press release is rallying local political leaders in the New York State Assembly and Senate. The goal is to urge New York Governor Kathy Hochul to pass the New York Health Act.
According to an interview with Julia Rovner, a chief Washington health policy correspondent for NPR, Congress is still figuring out whether to extend Affordable Care Act subsidies into 2026. If these subsidies expire, it can cause 40% proposed cuts to the National Institute of Health. In addition, there are massive Medicaid and Medicare cuts, and exclusions of coverage for transgender individuals. Furthermore, it can lead to up to 50% cuts proposed to the CDC, the elimination of the Division of HIV Prevention, and the monitoring for numerous viruses, including COVID-19.
ACT UP NY is a movement filled with empowerment and raising your voice. They fight for sustained investment in research for new medicines and treatments for HIV/AIDS, equitable access to prevention and care, and tackling structural drivers such as stigma, discrimination, and poverty regarding healthcare. To fight back, end AIDS, and protect public healthcare for all, you can contribute to the cause and join by visiting https://actupny.com/category/be-involved/. Currently, ACT UP meets every Monday night on Zoom, sign up for online meetings and in-person meetings. KN-95 masks are required; all are welcome. For more information regarding the “HealthGate” campaign, visit https://actupny.com/healthgate/.
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