In an effort to mitigate misinformation and concerns over the safety and efficacy of COVID-19 vaccinations and the importance of ensuring New York City families are up to date on all FDA approved vaccines, State Senator Gustavo Rivera and members of the health care and social justice community hosted an online forum Thursday evening to answer questions and present the latest vaccine information to the community.
Speakers provided updates on the latest developments on the COVID-19 pandemic, highlighting the importance of vaccine access and its equitable distribution to local communities. The event also included three doctors representing community vaccine providers in the Bronx.
“Our communities in the Bronx have been seriously impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, yet many Bronx residents still feel understandably hesitant about trusting the safety and efficacy of the COVID-19 vaccines,” said State Senator Gustavo Rivera. “It's up to us as community leaders to share facts, dispel misconceptions, and encourage everyone to make the best decision for their families, their neighborhoods, and ultimately our state. For me, that's getting vaccinated when I become eligible.”
Supporting the event was Let’s Get Immunized NY, a diverse group of organizations from across the state who have come together to promote science and evidence-based information and policy related to the importance and safety of vaccines for all New Yorkers. More than 200 people attended via Zoom and Facebook Live.
“Vaccination is important and necessary for our community and gives us the best hope of getting our lives and economy back to normal,” said Bethsy Morales-Reid, senior director of health initiatives at the Hispanic Federation. “Get vaccinated—and share your story—tell your friends and family to also get vaccinated.”
“COVID-19 is an equal opportunity infector, but it has impacted more brown and black
people” said Lorraine Braithwaite-Harte, Health Chair, NAACP NYS Conference. “There are historical reasons why our communities distrust the medical establishment, but the COVID-19 vaccine is a preventable measure—not an experiment—and is available to people of every color all across the world. We are all in this together and that means getting vaccinated for your health and the health of the community.”
Lets Get Immunized NY has over 40 diverse members including social justice organizations, educational and parent-focused groups, business advocates, agriculture and health care provider and public health organizations. Follow them on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.
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