The COVID-19 pandemic has shone a spotlight on how much we rely upon our public health officials. I am deeply grateful for the work Northampton’s Public Health Director and the Board of Health have done throughout this crisis to guide us, protect us--especially the most at risk--and distribute vaccines to the public. Even though state restrictions related to the pandemic have been lifted, we still must remain vigilant against the spread of COVID-19. As mayor, I would work closely with our public health officials and take all necessary steps to protect us from continued and new public health crises. I am grateful that the Fiscal Year 2022 budget includes a sizable investment in the Health Department, and that we are providing the resources needed for this vital department.

Reproductive freedom is essential to public health, and has been a core issue of my adult life, through my activism, advocacy and political work. I have consistently used my position as a City Councilor to advocate for abortion rights. I co-sponsored the first resolution from a municipal legislature anywhere in the Commonwealth in support of the ROE Act--statewide legislation that secures abortion as a legal right in the Commonwealth, and expands access and removes restrictions. The resolution was soon replicated in many other municipalities, and contributed to the bill’s successful passage. As mayor, I will continue to use my voice to promote reproductive freedom and equitable access to abortion.