During this time of troubling issues concerning economic opportunities, climate change, social justice and affordable health care, it is important to have strong representation on Beacon Hill. I am especially concerned by federal policies that roll back protections for people living with disabilities.
When I asked Jo Comerford for her policy statement on disability issues, she met with me one-on-one. We spent over an hour talking through the challenges that people with disabilities face and policy approaches that could help lift the barriers we encounter in our communities in western Massachusetts.
I am impressed by her ability to understand the diversity of life experiences held under the umbrella “people living with disabilities.” She quickly made connections between the challenges we face and policies that could alleviate them. Most importantly, she understood how leadership at the state level is crucial while so many federal laws and programs designed to protect and open up opportunities for us are at risk.
I am impressed by her statements on education; economic and environmental resilience; farming and rural communities. I am equally impressed by her statement on disability issues. I am confident that she will use her talents to work for all members of our communities, at every age and with every level of ability. We need this strong advocate and smart problem solver representing us in Boston.
I hope you will join me in writing in Jo Comerford for state senator on Sept. 4.
Joannah Whitney
Greenfield