CONTACT: Karen Ottoni, [email protected], (202) 961-3453
Livestream video here and pictures here
PHOENIX – On Friday, October 25, Moms Clean Air Force and EcoMadres hosted their inaugural summit, “Extreme Weather Impacts on Latina Maternal and Children’s Health” in Phoenix, Arizona. The event brought together community leaders, health professionals, and policymakers to examine the urgent and outsized challenges that Latino families are facing due to climate change and air pollution.
The summit featured engaging discussions with expert panelists, including Chief Heat Officer Dr. Eugene Livar, Yadira Sánchez, Executive Director of Poder Latinx, and other prominent advocates. Participants explored the interconnected issues of extreme weather, maternal health, and children’s health, highlighting the pressing need for systemic changes and federal climate investments to protect all of our communities.
“Latinos in the US find themselves in a unique position—they are both one of the country’s fastest growing populations and among those most likely to live and work in areas with dangerous air quality and extreme weather,” said Isabel González Whitaker, Director of EcoMadres.”EcoMadres exists to advance solutions to harmful air pollution and to fight for strong policies and standards that protect our communities from the impacts of this warming world. This convening today brings together the brightest minds in health care, government, and advocacy to share ideas for mitigation of, adaptation to, and immediate action on air pollution and extreme weather because Latino families shouldn’t live in fear of the air they are breathing.”
“As a mother, my deepest responsibility is to protect our children and ensure they grow up in a safe, healthy environment,” said Ylenia Aguilar, Southwest Field Organizer for Moms Clean Air Force and EcoMadres. “This commitment drives our advocacy at Moms Clean Air Force and EcoMadres, particularly for communities disproportionately affected by climate change and environmental hazards. The health of our families is inextricably linked to the health of our environment, and we must unite to address these challenges with urgency. Together, we can advocate for stronger protections and demand climate solutions that prioritize our health and well-being, ensuring a safer future for our children.”
“As the state’s first Chief Heat Officer, I understand the importance of mitigating the effects of the heat to improve health outcomes for all communities, said Dr. Eugene Livar, Chief Heat Officer, Arizona Department of Health Services. “The Governor’s Extreme Heat Preparedness plan creates a coordinated response to ensure all communities have access to the resources they need to thrive.”
“The devastating impact of climate change on Latino families—especially mothers and children—is a direct threat to our future,” said Yadira Sánchez, Executive Director of Poder Latinx. “At Poder Latinx, we are not just fighting for environmental justice; we are fighting for the survival and dignity of our communities. We cannot afford to stand by while our families suffer. Together with EcoMadres, we are joining forces to demand bold, urgent action that protects the health and well-being of those who have contributed so much to this country, yet bear the greatest burdens of environmental neglect.”