Organizing for Health Equity 2023 Action of Immediate Witness

WHEREAS recent attacks against abortion rights, gender-affirming health care, and the very young and the very old, together with the impact of systemic racism, the pandemic, poverty, and other societal problems, combine to bring all nations to a new conversation about health equity and human dignity;

WHEREAS, the 2023 Sustainable Development Goals Summit will convene at the United Nations in September to reimagine and reshape global programs for public health and justice; and

WHEREAS, the World Health Organization has declared that health equity is achieved when everyone can attain their full potential for health and well-being.

THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the 2023 General Assembly calls for:

International Action

  • Global partnerships for health improvement with a strong Unitarian Universalist presence at the United Nations.

  • Individuals to have more control over their bodies. Racism, ageism, ableism, homophobia, misogyny, and other forms of systemic oppression prevent many people from enjoying wellness.

National Action

  • Unitarian Universalists to work with others to create multigenerational alliances, so that different people, in different communities, may care for each other.

  • Equitable programs for paid family and medical care leave. Unitarian Universalists support strong Social Security programs and programs that empower people of all ages and different abilities.

  • A single-payer system that will provide medical insurance and long-term care insurance for all residents.

  • Support for Labor Union efforts to secure adequate occupational health and safety.

  • New programs for emergency preparedness, mental health services, and health and safety education, and to provide access to family planning services. Mutual aid and solidarity works better than charity.

  • Creation of a 2023 Farm Bill that works for the distribution of healthy food in a healthy environment.

Local Action

  • Congregations to study the Sustainable Development Goals and United Nations programs that promote health equity and justice.

  • Unitarian Universalists to celebrate Human Rights Day in December.

The people alive today will be held accountable by future generations.