Public Health Leaders’ Joint Statement in Response to the Attack on CDC

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Media Relations

Public Health Leaders’ Joint Statement in Response to the Attack on CDC

In response to the horrific shooting that occurred on Friday, Aug. 8, targeting the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the American Public Health Association stands with the public health community in solidarity with our CDC colleagues. We denounce acts of harassment, terror and violence against the public health workforce.

Our hearts break for the family of police officer David Rose who lost his life protecting his community.

Two hundred bullets struck and caused damage to six federal buildings and over 500 rounds were fired at the CDC campus. We are saddened, alarmed and deeply concerned about the health and safety of our colleagues. The shooting was an attack on an American workplaces and on the people and infrastructure that keep us all healthy and safe.

We are committed to working together to support our nation’s dedicated public servants who comprise the public health workforce and call on others to do the same. It is critical to the health of all communities that CDC and all people working in public health across the country are able to continue to make their invaluable contributions to advancing health and well-being without the fear of harassment or violence.

People choosing public health as a profession are committed to advancing our nation’s health and recognize that good health in every community benefits everyone. It is our hope that all Americans will stand with us to support the vital role that CDC and the entire public health workforce play in supporting safety and well-being in every community. Their expertise and commitment to advancing health deserves all Americans’ unwavering support.

American Public Health Association 

Association of Maternal and Child Health Programs 

Association of Public Health Nurses 

Association of State and Territorial Dental Directors 

Association of State and Territorial Health Officials 

Association of State and Territorial Public Health Social Workers 

Association of Public Health Laboratories 

Association of Schools and Programs of Public Health 

Big Cities Health Coalition 

CDC Foundation 

Council of State and Territorial Epidemiologists 

de Beaumont Foundation 

National Association of Chronic Disease Directors 

National Association of County and City Health Officials 

National Network of Public Health Institutes 

Prevention Institute 

Public Health Accreditation Board 

Safe States Alliance 

The Kresge Foundation 

Trust for America’s Health  

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The American Public Health Association champions optimal, equitable health and well-being for all. With our broad-based member community and 150-year perspective, we influence federal policy to improve the public’s health. Learn more at www.apha.org.