Celebrating 100 Years of Public Health in New Mexico at the State Legislature

New Mexico Department of Health (NMDOH) joins the New Mexico Public Health Association (NMPHA) and the New Mexico Alliance of Health Councils (NMAHC) in hosting the 5^th Annual “Public Health Day” at the New Mexico Legislature.

During a public program in the Capitol Rotunda at noon, Lt. Governor Howie Morales and NMDOH Cabinet Secretary Kathy Kunkel will join public health leaders from across the state of New Mexico to celebrate the 100-year-anniversary of the New Mexico Department of Health.

Various public health organizations and programs will host exhibits in the East and West Halls of History starting at 8 a.m. to educate the public and policymakers about the importance of public health to the overall well-being of New Mexicans.

“As we celebrate the achievements of public health in New Mexico over the last century, we also look to the future with our shared vision for a healthier New Mexico,” said Department of Health Cabinet Secretary Kathy Kunkel. “Together with our state and community partners, we will continue to identify critical health challenges and improve population health and health equity statewide.”

From women’s health to climate change, infectious disease, violence, and chronic disease prevention, advocates will reach out to legislators about evidence-based public health approaches. Other leaders from government, industry and community groups will also join the conversations throughout the day to improve health inequities, reduce communicable and chronic diseases, decrease healthcare costs and ensure a productive and competitive workforce.

“As public health practitioners, NMPHA members and public health leaders are building a future that’s anchored in health equity,” said NMPHA President-Elect Melissa Ontiveros. “Our mission is to improve the health of New Mexicans. Public health practitioners understand that to achieve this goal, health equity is a central focus of our work.”

“The commitment to improving health for all New Mexicans from health councils, public health association members and Department of Health staff through advocacy, education, and community development is both inspiring and truly needed,” said A. Terrie Rodriguez, Executive Director, of NMAHC.

Participants in Public Health Day at the Legislature can network and engage throughout the day on social media using the #PublicHealthDay2019 hashtag. Those unable to attend in person can send emails and make phone calls to their state elected officials.