1) The Action Board, as noted in previous reports this year, is reviewing and archiving APHA policies, a course of action that will continue. It has been useful to update important policies and eliminate some that may be no longer relevant.

 2) The Action Board has actively encouraged engagement with elective representatives to advocate for policies and legislation that would benefit public health. Direct discussions with representatives, especially during recent legislative recess periods, were emphasized. I would like to hear reports from Medical Care as to what extent this has been done by our members.

3) The important issue of APHA advocacy will be presented at the Annual Meeting. Members will be encouraged to consider critical questions regarding advocacy such as: What is Advocacy? How can you make a difference?

The Action Board works closely with APHA Government Relations and Advocacy staff to motivate members to participate in advocacy efforts, policies passed and legislative initiatives that are parallel with the association’s priorities. Our role as Action Board representatives is to make certain that APHA’S Action Alerts are directly relevant to the units we represent (e.g., sections, SPIGs et.al.).

As the public health community knows first hand, education is key.  When citizens learn about an issue and how policy decisions are made, it empowers them to get involved and act. This collective process helps to chart the direction of policy.  Community education and participation of individuals, groups and public health partners in the development and implementation of critical public health policy makes for healthier communities. Education + Action = Advocacy

ADVOCACY EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES

If you are interested in learning more about public health advocacy, there are opportunities for members to learn about and participate in APHA Advocacy at the upcoming Annual Meeting. The following is a list of sessions and events to keep in mind if you are planning to attend.

 (Note:  See Annual Meeting Program for locations of sessions)

1)3288.0        Monday, Nov. 6, 2006, 2:30-4 p.m.: Mobilizing a Campaign Around A Public Health Issues.

2)3192.0        Monday, Nov. 6, 2006, 12:30-2 p.m.: Advocacy Law Rules and Tools of Non-Profit Lobbying.

3)3008.0        Monday, Nov. 6, 2006, 2006, 8:30-10 a.m.: How to Write a Good Policy.

4)5031.0        Wednesday, Nov. 8, 2006, 8:30-10 a.m.: Impact of the Midterm Elections.

5)3288.0        Nov. 6, 2006, 2:30 p.m.: Vermont: A State Level Advocacy Best Practice.

  6) ELECTION NIGHT PARTY:  On Tuesday, Nov. 7, 2006, 7-11 p.m., YOU are invited to an Election Night Cocktail Party co-hosted by the Action Board and the Student Assembly.  Cast your vote for public health and then come watch the election night returns with your fellow public health advocates!

Where:  Hyatt Regency Boston, Lobby Bar and Lounge, One Avenue De Lafayette.

Featuring: Cash Bar with election night-themed drinks, TVs to watch election night results and analysis, election charts information, APHA voting records, information about APHA advocacy and much more!  Please join us for the party, and remember to vote before you attend the Annual Meeting.

Interested in learning more about the Action Board? Please see the APHA Web site at: http:www.apha.org/private/action_board/2006_core_activities.cfm.