Stand up for public education and Medicaid!

As nurses, we know that education and health are closely linked. We are strongly concerned about threats to slash Medicaid funding, education funding and plans to dismantle the U.S. Department of Education. WSNA’s national labor partner, AFT, has called for nationwide actions on Tuesday, March 4 to protect public education and Medicaid. Our siblings from AFT Washington locals are planning a sign-waving and solidarity action on March 4, from 4-6 p.m. at the Lynnwood Event Center to defend public education. Let’s join them to show our support.

We know that Medicaid is critically important—it provides health care coverage to 1 in 5 Washingtonians. It is literally a lifeline for pregnant mothers, kids, the elderly, and low-wage workers. It is also an important source of school health funding. Massive Medicaid cuts will threaten healthcare jobs, staffing levels and put many hospital services at risk.

Education is key to health literacy, access to care, job opportunities and other social determinants of health. Preparing future generations of nurses requires a sound educational foundation and well-resourced institutions of higher education. Cuts in school funding will mean students with chronic health problems and other disabilities will go without needed support.

WSNA stands together with educators, school support staff, other healthcare workers, and communities to defend public education and Medicaid! This is the same fight: To protect kids, patients, families, and communities against devastating cuts.