What: Virtual roundtable with Rep. Bobby Scott, patients, and community leaders

When: Thursday, August 13 at 6 p.m.

Where: Zoom; join by video or phone

Norfolk, Va. — Virginia Organizing will host a virtual roundtable with special guest Rep. Bobby Scott on Thursday, August 13 at 6 p.m. to celebrate the 55th anniversary of Medicaid and Medicare and call for a strong COVID-19 relief package from Congress. Despite Medicaid’s proven value as a health care program and economic stimulus to local communities, the Senate Majority Leader’s recent proposal and President Trump’s executive actions do not provide a single additional dollar to the longstanding public program.

“Life can be especially challenging during this time and it is important to celebrate the victories that we can. The anniversary of Medicaid and Medicare is a reminder of one such victory,” said Crystal Harrison, a leader in the Portsmouth Chapter of Virginia Organizing. “It’s time to create a new victory by passing the strongest possible stimulus package. Our friends and neighbors who are eligible for Medicaid, SNAP recipients, and our states and local governments deserve full COVID-19 relief.”

In May, Virginia Organizing released a letter signed by more than 140 state and local officials—including many elected officials in Hampton Roads—calling for a robust COVID-19 relief package to create a strong, equitable recovery. Urgency for federal action on relief and recovery has been building over the past month as more than 900,000 Virginians filed unemployment claims by early July. Without substantial federal assistance, Virginia could lose up to 135,100 jobs by 2021, plunging more families into hardship and slowing economic recovery.

“I am in the at-risk category for COVID-19. I am over the age of 65, and I have other pre-existing medical conditions. I am reliant upon Medicare to help with my medications, physical therapy, and frequent doctor’s appointments. I hope that Congress will help citizens like me, who rely on critical public health programs,” says Barbara Jefferson Harris, a leader in the Norfolk Chapter and member of the State Governing Board.

After speakers share their opening remarks, community members and reporters will be able to ask questions and participate in the moderated discussion.

To interview a spokesperson about this event, contact Meghan McNamara at 847-922-1213 or meghan@virginia-organizing.org