Don't wait for reform

To the editor:

(re: “Still waiting: Where is universal health care?” Jan. 27)

How can we be realistic about the passage of the New York Health Act this session in Albany after this prolonged pandemic? Do we just hope that our representatives do the right thing?

As history is our witness, any attempt to establish universal health care in this country has been beaten back by a majority of representatives. A life-saving, cost-cutting health care system denied by a majority representing whom?

As a retired public school teacher, our union opposing the New York Health Act — and thereby supporting our current for-profit health care system — to me is the antithesis of what a teacher should represent. Success in teaching is knowing you have helped a student advance. In doing so, you are giving that student an opportunity to achieve full potential, benefitting both the individual and society as a whole.

If a student or any individual is denied needed health care, you are limiting or denying that opportunity, and everyone loses. Supporting our current for-profit health care system reveals smallness of vision, and is unworthy of a conscientious teacher.

If we want our representatives to support the New York Health Act, they must hear from us. After all, this is representational government.

Please take the time to contact your state representatives — including the governor. Request they prioritize passing the New York Health Act this session.

David Carlson

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