By: Cienna Ditri and Lisa Skylis
While there have been many conversations around vaccine equity in Michigan, chronic conditions and disability seem to have been left out. Again, and again, and well, again.
Michigan has pushed those under 65 who are high risk for dying of COVID-19 further down the list of those to be vaccinated.
In the UK, disabled people account for 60% of COVID deaths. In Australia, disabled people are 5 times more likely to die of COVID-19. The US is not collecting data on the matter, but we know disabled folks continue to die of COVID-19 at a disproportionate rate when compared to the rest of the population. Why is it that this community has not been prioritized in Michigan’s vaccine schedule?
If you think the lives of those with physical and cognitive disabilities are worth saving, let your Michigan Department of Health and Human Services know! Let your senator know! Let your representatives know! It’s time to show that disabled and chronically ill lives are valued in Michigan! Elections aren’t the only time to be politically engaged, it’s just as important at all other times. Work with the officials that we voted in to represent our needs! Raise your voices to claim our seat at the vaccination table! #NoBodyIsDisposable #CripTheVote
Email the Director of the Department of Health and Human Services, Elizabeth Hertel: SimsT2@michigan.gov
After you have contacted the Department of Health and Human Services, show that you believe chronically ill and disabled lives are valuable in Michigan by sharing a selfie or picture of yourself making a mitten! Share this post or the blog accompanying it alongside your photo to help spread the message!
Go above and beyond:
Contact the Governor: https://somgovweb.state.mi.us/GovRelations/ContactGovernor.aspx
Contact Senator Stabenow: https://www.stabenow.senate.gov/contact
Contact Senator Peters: https://www.peters.senate.gov/contact/email-gary
Lieutenant Governor Gilchrist’s office: 517-373-6800