This June, I had the privilege of attending the APHA Policy Institute in Washington, DC. The event was a convergence of passionate voices and insightful discussions, all aimed at advancing public health through effective advocacy. Here’s an overview of some of the most impactful sessions I attended.

Youth Voices in Public Health

A standout session was “Youth Who Are Changing the Public’s Health,” featuring Zamaan Qureshi, Selina Mathis, and Kyndall Knight. They addressed the profound impact of social media on youth mental health, the public health implications of gun violence, and the importance of youth engagement in policy-making. Zamaan emphasized the need for mental health awareness, stating, “Social media should have similar warning labels as health issues to prepare adults for the implications on youth.” This session underscored the critical role that young people play in shaping public health policies and the importance of equipping them with the tools to advocate for change.

The Farm Bill Fireside Chat

The Farm Bill Fireside Chat with Jacqlyn Schneider, Ellen Teller, and Claire Borzner highlighted the essential role of the Farm Bill in ensuring access to healthy food. Ellen Teller’s powerful quote, “The problem is not the availability of food; what is lacking is the political will to eradicate hunger,” resonated deeply. The discussion emphasized integrating urban gardens and healthcare institutions into the Farm Bill to tackle food insecurity, advocating for policies that support low-income families and promote food equity.

 Including LGBTQ+ Health

Olivia Hunt and Elizabeth Bloom’s session on LGBTQ+ health addressed pressing issues such as bathroom bans and discriminatory ID policies affecting transgender individuals. Hunt’s remark, “Supporting the rights of parents who don’t like trans people to harass trans children,” highlighted the discriminatory tactics used against trans youth. The session stressed the importance of advocacy for gender-affirming care and educating the public to counter misinformation about LGBTQ+ lives.

Abortion Access

Kelly Baden from the Guttmacher Institute provided crucial insights into the current landscape of abortion access. She noted that 14 states have implemented total abortion bans, leading to a rise in cross-state travel for services. Baden advocated for insurance coverage for abortions and shield laws to protect healthcare providers in states with restrictive laws. Her discussion emphasized the need for robust advocacy to safeguard reproductive rights and access to healthcare.

A New Kind of Advocacy

Lori Fresina’s session on advocacy provided a fresh perspective on how to be an effective advocate. She posed three essential questions: What do you want? Why do you want it? Who can give it to you? Fresina’s emphasis on clarity, connection, and creativity in advocacy efforts was particularly inspiring. She encouraged us to “bring truth to power and tell your story,” a powerful reminder of the impact our personal narratives can have on driving policy change.

 Moving Forward

The APHA Policy Institute reinforced the critical need for advocacy in addressing public health challenges and promoting health equity. The sessions highlighted the power of youth voices, the importance of inclusive policies for marginalized communities, and the necessity of robust advocacy for reproductive rights.

As I reflect on this experience, I am more committed than ever to advocating for public health policies that are inclusive, equitable, and just. Let’s continue to push for change, tell our stories, and bring our truths to power. Together, we can create a healthier, more equitable future.

About the Author

Melodie Marsh is a native of Flint, MI and is a rising sophomore at Howard University. Melodie is also a Flint Youth Environmental Justice Council Member with Young, Gifted & Green.