2017 Minority Health Town Hall Meeting is this Wednesday (October 4) at St. Marks from 5:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.

I've just become aware of this town hall meeting about minority health issues and legislation, which takes place this Wednesday (October 4) at St. Marks United Church of Christ, 222 E. Spring Street in New Albany. It's from 5:30 - 7:00 p.m., and you are welcome to attend.

It is my understanding that State Representative Ed Clere has been on the board of the the Indiana Minority Health Coalition for several years. To be honest, I don't know very much about the organization itself.

Indiana Minority Health Coalition history

In 1992, local minority health coalitions throughout Indiana were inspired to start addressing the health disparities among Indiana residents. With the help of the Indiana Black Legislative Caucus, they collaborated to develop the first 5-year Minority Health Strategic Plan for Indiana. As a result, these local coalitions were able to create the Indiana Minority Health Coalition to facilitate the adoption of the strategic plan as it passed through the legislative process. The general consensus among the leadership was that the Minority Health Initiative needed one statewide entity that could serve as a focal point and a unified voice for the local coalitions' concerns. Thus, IMHC was legally incorporated in 1994.

In recent months the IMHC has been organizing these town halls throughout the state, and Rep. Clere arranged one to occur here, even though we don't have an IMHC affiliate (Community Action of Southern Indiana is acting as surrogate in this instance).

IMHC's work during previous town hall swings has included educating about coverage under the Affordable Care Act and advocating for Medicaid expansion.

Our mission

“To enhance the quality of life through education, advocacy, and quality health care services for racial/ethnic minorities. To conduct research and training, develop policy, and create and maintain a broad-based network of affiliate agencies.”

Wednesday's town hall meeting might be a first step toward finding an IMHC affiliate here. I'm planning on attending.

Anyone else?