We witnessed an unconscionable assault on our democracy yesterday, and we stand firm in condemning the insurrection and violence that attempted to subvert the peaceful transfer of power in our nation’s capital. Questions about the disparate responses from law enforcement to this mob, compared to past protests for racial justice, reinforce the need for our continued work to create a more just and equitable society for all.
The John A. Hartford Foundation’s mission to improve the care of older adults can only be achieved in the context of a strong, well-functioning civil society. The policies and programs that are needed to support the well-being of older people and their families will only be realized when our elected leaders – and all of us as citizens – stand up for truth, strong democratic institutions, a free press and commit to finding solutions through peaceful debate and compromise.
Fortunately, we have an opportunity to move forward with a new administration and Congress that can seize this moment to break from the disturbing trends in our public discourse that have culminated in this week’s events.
We look forward to working with our partners in health care, government, philanthropy, industry and all sectors to learn from this moment and take strong action to protect and preserve the integrity of our democracy, for the sake of us all.
Sincerely,
Terry Fulmer, PhD, RN, FAAN
President
The John A. Hartford Foundation