This 4th of July, #COVIDStopsWithMe

By Lance Robertson, Assistant Secretary for Aging and Administrator, ACL

Our Declaration of Independence says,

We hold these truths to be self-evident that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their creator with certain unalienable rights, that among these are life, liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.

From providing services that make it possible for people to live in their own homes, to ensuring that all people have equal access to health care, the work we do together upholds those unalienable rights -- and defends independence -- for people with disabilities and for older adults.

It seems very fitting to celebrate our work as we celebrate our nation’s Independence Day!

I am so proud of the dedication, innovation and tireless advocacy we have seen every day from both the aging and disability networks across the country, and from our team here at ACL. Over the last several months, we have worked hard together -- both to slow the spread of the disease to ensure that older adults and people with disabilities continue to have the support they need to live safely in the community as we get through this challenging time.

As we head into holiday celebrations that often include gatherings with family and friends, it is more important than ever for us to take individual actions to protect ourselves, the people around us, and the people at greatest risk.

As the U.S. Surgeon General said in his Independence Day message, “If we want to get back to school, back to work, back to worship, and back to overall health, there are things our country needs to do.”

These include:

• Following state and local guidelines
• Taking extra precautions if we are at higher risk ourselves – or if we live with, or regularly are in contact with people who are
• Wash our hands frequently
• Maintain physical distance of at least six feet
• Wear a face covering when you can’t maintain physical distance

I’m committing to taking personal responsibility, because #COVIDStopsWithMe. Will you join me?