John,

On this World Health Day, the theme is all about making health fairer and more equitable. The World Health Organization is calling for action to eliminate inequality in health around the globe as the world rebuilds and recovers from the COVID-19 pandemic.

Unfortunately, we live in a world where some are privileged to access quality health care and basic human necessities, while so many others are not — making it difficult for them to maintain healthy lifestyles.

In communities across our country and the world, this inequality can be seen in lack of affordable housing, limited access to clean water and natural resources, food insecurity, unlivable wages, and inaccessible health care and other medical services.

We saw these inequalities at play when COVID-19 disparately hit some communities harder than others. And like most of society's problems, the impacts were disproportionately worse in low-income communities and communities of color.

It doesn’t have to be this way. The World Health Organization has committed to ensuring living and working conditions that are conducive to good health across the world. We can support these efforts by raising awareness on World Health Day - and every day.

As Attorney General, I have a duty to protect Oregonians and to help ensure justice for all. This includes doing everything in my power to make sure every single person in our state receives the same opportunities to lead healthy lives — regardless of race, identity, gender, location, or employment status. I will not stop fighting for you and your health.

I hope you take a few moments to make your health a priority today by getting some kind of socially distanced exercise, drinking an extra glass of water, and proudly wearing your face mask.

Happy World Health Day!

Ellen