Vote for climate justice: Questions to ask candidates for office this election season

Town halls and other forums provide an opportunity for community residents to ask questions of candidates running for office. APHA is providing sample questions on climate justice.

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With election season here, knowing where candidates stand on key issues of importance for public health, such as climate justice, is vital. One of the best ways to find out is to ask directly.

APHA’s Center for Climate, Health and Equity is sharing questions health advocates can pose to candidates, whether they are at the local or congressional level.

The center recommends asking questions at a town hall meeting, by phone, on social media, via email or in other interactions with any candidates to find out where they stand on climate justice and equitable health outcomes.

After a candidate answers a question, Katherine Catalano, MS, APHA’s deputy director of climate, health and equity, recommends following up with “Why is that important?” or “How can we help?”

“Share the answers you receive with your family, friends and local leaders so they can be informed as well,” Catalano says. “You’ll be raising awareness of needs in your community they may not be aware of.”

Public health supporters can also raise awareness about climate justice issues that matter to them by meeting with their leaders, sharing messages on social media or writing an op-ed. APHA has resources and tips at www.apha.org/speak-for-health. For more information on climate justice and tools from APHA, visit www.apha.org/climate.

• Copyright The Nation’s Health, American Public Health Association