The Lands Council Hosts Legislative Summit for Expo '74: Climate Change & Health Equity

The Lands Council, a prominent advocate for environmental and social justice, recently hosted a pivotal legislative summit in celebration of Expo ’74 in Spokane Washington. The summit sought to bring awareness of the impacts of climate change, by having meaningful discussions with community members with the goal of potentially crafting policy proposals. Legislative representatives from across the state were on hand to help guide the discussions in the direction of forming policies. The discussions were broken down into subgroups; Climate and Environment, Indigenous Rights, Immigrants and Refugees, Childcare and Education, Housing and Homelessness, and Health Disparities - Reproductive, Disability and LGTBQIA+ Rights. 

The Health Disparities, Reproductive, Disability Rights and LGBTQIA+ Rights breakout discussion brought together community leaders, health advocates, and legislators to address pressing issues such as health disparities, reproductive and disability rights, and LGBTQIA+ rights. With Quinton Baker serving as a key facilitator, the summit aimed to foster dialogue and develop actionable strategies to enhance health equity in the region.

Key Topics of Discussion:

Health Disparities and Reproductive Rights

This segment underscored the importance of sexual and bodily health autonomy, positioning reproductive rights as a healthcare priority. Facilitators and participants delved into the requirements for reproductive health and gender-affirming care, emphasizing the need for comprehensive healthcare education. Discussions also highlighted the role of healthcare educators in bridging gaps and ensuring equitable access to necessary services.

Hospitals Addressing Multiple Groups

Addressing the diverse needs of the community, this session explored how hospitals can better serve populations such as non-English speakers, LGBTQIA+ communities, and individuals with disabilities. The dialogue included mandates for access and treatment, accountability for medical professionals, and the crucial need for translated forms and resources. The goal was to develop strategies to comprehensively tackle these issues and ensure no one is left behind in receiving quality healthcare.

Distinguished Facilitators

Quinton Baker

Quinton Baker, a dedicated public health professional and Executive Director of Forge, brought his extensive experience in population health to the summit. With eight years of work focusing on reducing barriers to holistic health, housing, and reentry in Spokane County, Quinton's insights were invaluable in guiding discussions and developing actionable solutions.

Luke Tolley

As the Director of Community Engaged Programs at The Arc of Spokane, Luke Tolley has been a stalwart advocate for the community. With over a decade of experience in community organizing and leadership, Luke’s expertise in person-centered planning and program management provided a robust framework for addressing the needs of individuals with disabilities and other marginalized groups.

Rowena Pineda

Representing the Washington State Environmental Justice Council, Rowena Pineda brought a wealth of knowledge on environmental justice and health equity. Her work with the Interagency Work Group, composed of staff from seven state agencies, has been instrumental in implementing the Healthy Environment for All (HEAL) Act, making her contributions crucial to the summit's discussions.

Engaged Legislators

Representative Marcus Riccelli (D) 3rd Legislative District

As Chair of the Health Care & Wellness Committee, Rep. Marcus Riccelli played a significant role in the summit. His legislative focus on healthcare policy and fiscal management provided a critical perspective on the structural changes needed to address health disparities and enhance access to reproductive and gender-affirming care.

Representative Timm Ormsby (D) 3rd Legislative District

Rep. Timm Ormsby, Chair of the Appropriations Committee, brought his expertise in financial management and labor practices to the summit. His insights were pivotal in discussions on funding and policy measures to ensure equitable healthcare access and accountability for medical professionals.

Conclusion

The Lands Council's legislative summit for Expo '74 was a landmark event, bringing together diverse voices to address health disparities and advocate for the rights of marginalized communities. With the guidance of experienced facilitators and the support of dedicated legislators, the summit laid the groundwork for meaningful change in healthcare access and equity. This event underscores the importance of collaborative efforts in creating a more inclusive and just healthcare system for all.