‌Team,

Today is the first day of classes for many Texas students, including my daughter Carina, who is entering the seventh grade, and my son Cristián, who is beginning the first grade.

Under normal circumstances, today is a day that brings parents great pride and joy. But unfortunately, this week is bringing many parents in Texas and elsewhere tremendous anxiety. Here's why:

-- Covid cases and hospitalizations are surging in Texas, including among children.

-- ICU beds are down in the single digits in communities across the state.

-- Less than half of Texans are fully vaccinated. The state ranks 35th in the nation in vaccinations.

At the same time, our Republican statewide leadership has failed to lead in this crisis. Governor Abbott has banned schools from requiring masks and has stopped providing supplemental support to schools for virtual instruction. And, schools won't be required to inform parents of Covid outbreaks in their students' classrooms.

Let's be very clear: Governor Abbott and Republican statewide leaders are putting their own politics before the health and safety of our students and teachers. Parents deserve to know that everything is being done to keep their children safe. But instead of leading, Abbott and others are catering to a vocal, right-wing minority that shows no concern for the health of others.

For more than a year, most Texans have done the responsible thing — getting vaccinated, wearing masks, and asking their children to do the same. And while I'm hopeful things will turn out okay, it's clear what is happening in Texas is a recipe for disaster.

In the absence of leadership from the governor, local communities and leaders like you are stepping up. We must continue to urge our friends and families to get vaccinated, wear masks, and social distance where appropriate.

We can beat this virus, but not with political games and misinformation. We can do it by listening to the experts, respecting our fellow citizens, and keeping our kids safe. Thank you for doing your part.

Stay safe,

Julián

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