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Stand Up for Medicaid!

March 3, 2006—On Tuesday, March 7, at 11:30 am, hundreds of everyday people will converge on the West Lawn of the U.S. Capitol to protest slash-and-burn budget cuts that would cut off millions of Americans’ access to crucial health services.

People who have mental illnesses would be particularly harmed by the drastic cuts (see a summary of cuts proposed by Congress —and ultimately passed by the narrowest of margins). For many adults, children and youth, the Medicaid program is a critical touchstone. It is the single most important funder of public mental health services.

Congress needs to see and hear Americans’ concern about the holes it’s making in this critical safety net. A strong showing by people of all ages will send a powerful signal. Please join in!

Time: 11:30 am

Date: Tuesday, March 7

Where: Top of the grassy area, West Front of the U. S. Capitol, Washington DC.*

Medicaid makes a real difference in the lives of millions of people with mental disabilities. Without access to needed services and supports, common tasks like keeping a job or going to school, or providing love and support to loved ones can prove daunting for even the most motivated people.

You know all this, of course, but if you want more details about Medicaid and what it means to people with mental illnesses, the Bazelon Center has an issue brief online that you’ll find informative:
http://www.bazelon.org/issues/medicaid/publications/choicesforweb.pdf

The rally is organized by People for the American Way. RSVP and questions: knabers@pfaw.org

* The closest Metro stops are Union Station (red line/MARC/Amtrak) and Capitol South (blue/orange lines).