The training will focus on how members of the public can advocate for themselves and their causes at the Legislature and more directly, those issues that affect their health, such as the equality act.
The Marshall University Minority Health Institute partnered with Fairness West Virginia, a statewide civil rights advocacy organization dedicated to fair treatment and civil rights for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender West Virginians. Their missions is to ensure that LGBTQ+ people can be open, honest and safe at home, at work and in the community. The group says they’re open to everyone who believes in fundamental fairness.
The third partner in the training, WV Free, is focused on reproductive health, rights and justice. The vision of the organization is centered around the respect for people’s lives with the belief that access to reproductive health care and education is a fundamental human right.
The session starts at noon on Thursday, Nov. 18, in Corbly Hall, room 105.
LaDawna Walker Dean is with the Marshall University Health Institute.
“This training is vital for students and the community, specifically LGBTQ+, minorities, and vulnerable populations to learn more about the West Virginia Legislative session and Equality Act,” Dean said.
Dr. Anthony T. Woart is the chair of the Department of Public Health in the College of Health Professions at Marshall, where the Minority Health Institute is housed.
“Fairness for minority and vulnerable populations in West Virginia means that everyone, regardless of socioeconomic status or race, has the right to the American dream including equitable health care rights,” Woart said.
The hope is to provide the basis for community and members and students to know how and to whom to deliver their message. The training is free and open to the public.