iiinova — where your digital self keeps evolving

Berkeley Media Studies Group @media-studies.bsky.social · 23/09/2026

We’re inspired by “The Cigarette Surfboard,” a film and example of media advocacy that shows surfer Taylor Lane’s trek to start a dialogue about single-use cigarette filters. Lane collected cigarette butts and made them into surfboards, prompting policy action in Santa Cruz. vist.ly/5jj26

cbsnews.com

California's "Cigarette Surfboard" documentary highlights scourge of discarded cigarette butts

The Cigarette Surfboard focuses on surfboards created, and decorated, using intricate designs made from discarded cigarette butts.

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Berkeley Media Studies Group @media-studies.bsky.social · 22/09/2026

BMSG was honored to co-host a training with RadComms last week. Together, we presented a new framework on how to determine audience values, behaviors, and power. BMSG is grateful for our partnership, and looks forward to testing this framework with RadComm’s Raising Majority cohort.

Event graphic with the text 'Audience Research for Radical Futures' and a close-up of a person.

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Berkeley Media Studies Group @media-studies.bsky.social · 21/09/2026

It’s #NFSHW26, we're raising awareness of the hazards facing agricultural workers — and life-saving interventions. With the Northeast Center for Occupational Health and Safety, BMSG created a toolkit to bring media attention to the proven track record of one such intervention. vist.ly/5jb9y

Graphic with tractor and sunrise, text: Safety Today Success Tomorrow, National Farm Safety & Health Week, September 21-25, 2026.

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Berkeley Media Studies Group @media-studies.bsky.social · 17/09/2026

For Hispanic Heritage Month, we’re revisiting our work with Unidos. We found that Latinos are underrepresented both as authors and sources in news about racial equity. We created recommendations for reporters, publishers, philanthropists and advocates. Read more: vist.ly/5ivv9

Elevating Latino experiences and voices in news about racial equity: Findings and recommendations for more complete coverage - Berkeley Media Studies Group

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Berkeley Media Studies Group @media-studies.bsky.social · 16/09/2026

Happy Hispanic Heritage Month! Our friends at Salud America! have shared 31 ways to celebrate this month. From learning about history, to sharing your experiences, and opportunities to serve your community, there’s a thoughtful way to mark this month every day. Read here: vist.ly/5ipy5

31 Awesome Ways to Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month - Salud America

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Berkeley Media Studies Group @media-studies.bsky.social · 15/09/2026

Today marks one year since Saneeha Mirza rejoined BMSG as our strategic communication associate! Nearly every newsletter you've read and social post you’ve seen carries her fingerprints, and we’re so grateful to have her back on the team. Please join us in celebrating Saneeha!

Woman in a blue hijab smiles at the camera.

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Berkeley Media Studies Group @media-studies.bsky.social · 11/09/2026

Recently, the Blue Shield of California Foundation awarded a grant to BMSG’s Co-Director Kathi Schaff, as a part of a program that supports emerging leaders. We are grateful for the partnership and applaud BSCF for their commitment to sustainable leadership. Read more: vist.ly/5i5n5

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Berkeley Media Studies Group @media-studies.bsky.social · 09/09/2026

New research from our partners at FrameWorks Institute examines the narratives that surround care, and how counter-narratives could change the way we think about care, gender, and family. Read the report here: vist.ly/5humz

Finding Openings for Change: What the Media Landscape Reveals About Gender, Care & Families

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Berkeley Media Studies Group @media-studies.bsky.social · 08/09/2026

This week marks 4 years with our wonderful Head of Media Advocacy, Rosaura Wardsworth! She works tirelessly to help BMSG’s clients communicate about their work to policymakers and the public. We are incredibly fortunate to have Rosaura!

Woman in maroon dress speaks in front of a teal screen with video equipment.

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Berkeley Media Studies Group @media-studies.bsky.social · 04/09/2026

Last week, BMSG’s Head of Media Advocacy, Rosaura Wardsworth, led a training session at the VALOR Statewide Conference in Los Angeles. Rosaura shared messaging guidance to better communicate about sexual violence. We are honored to have the opportunity to work with such dedicated advocates.

Woman speaking with microphone; flipchart with sticky notes and projected screen in background.

People sitting at tables with papers and water bottles in a conference room.

Three women smiling in front of a board filled with sticky notes.

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Berkeley Media Studies Group @media-studies.bsky.social · 03/09/2026

Public health experts know what to say, and need support to say it right. Here are a few tips from BMSG’s leadership team in September’s issue of Health Affairs. Read the full article here: vist.ly/5h7ed

Speaker in front of audience, text overlay reads 'Know your purpose, audience and intended outcome'.

A man speaking to an audience with a text overlay about communication.

Speaker addressing audience with text overlay guiding clarity.

Speaker addressing audience with text overlay on trust.

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Berkeley Media Studies Group @media-studies.bsky.social · 01/09/2026

September is National Suicide Prevention Month. The way outlets report on mental health and suicide matters. Reporting practices can discourage contagion and encourage people to seek support. Suicide Awareness Voices on Education has guidance for reporters: vist.ly/5gwe4

Two hands holding a black paper heart against a plain background.

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Berkeley Media Studies Group @media-studies.bsky.social · 28/08/2026

While BMSG staff live all over the country, we do prioritize in-person time together every chance we get! Several of our California-based staff were able to grab lunch together last week. We are so grateful that our hardworking staff get time to unwind!

A group of ten people smiling in front of a floral wall with a neon sign saying 'Hello Gorgeous'.

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Berkeley Media Studies Group @media-studies.bsky.social · 27/08/2026

Describing issues and solutions in a way that the public and policymakers can understand is a challenge for public health practitioners and researchers. In a newl perspective for Health Affairs, BMSG’s leadership team addresses this dilemma while offering guidance. Read here: vist.ly/5gdby

Quote about health communication with a microphone background.

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Berkeley Media Studies Group @media-studies.bsky.social · 25/08/2026

Incomplete media coverage leaves young people feeling unseen and unfairly portrayed, diminishing trust in the media. A new analysis from Report for Youth Justice provides guidance for journalists to address the concerns of young people. Read here: vist.ly/5g4v8

Two people at a café using a laptop together.

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Berkeley Media Studies Group @media-studies.bsky.social · 24/08/2026

The September issue of Health Affairs will include a paper authored by BMSG’s own leadership team. “What can you say when you can't say everything?” explores effective public health communication in today’s media and policy climate. Stay tuned!

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Berkeley Media Studies Group @media-studies.bsky.social · 17/08/2026

BMSG's training team recently provided a message development training for the UCSF Reach program at the EaRTH Center. Through Reach, participants build the skills needed to converse with policymakers to promote lasting change at the state level. BMSG is honored to elevate such important work!

Capitol building with a dome flanked by trees under a clear sky.

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Berkeley Media Studies Group @media-studies.bsky.social · 11/08/2026

As elections approach, affordability dominates headlines. According to Julie Sweetland, a sociolinguist at FrameWorks Institute, this abstract term may be undermining efforts to change policy. Learn more about why "affordability" is problematic and what we can say instead: vist.ly/5eeew

The “Affordability” Trap: Why Progressives Need to Talk About Design, Not Just Prices

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Berkeley Media Studies Group @media-studies.bsky.social · 10/08/2026

International Overdose Prevention Day is approaching, and the way journalists talk about substance use matters. To improve coverage, check out Coverage Drugs, a data-rich resource from the Reynolds Journalism Institute. Read more: vist.ly/5eama

rjionline.org

Introducing Covering Drugs: A media resource guide

This 150-page reference guide includes research, surveys, data, and other helpful information for journalists covering substance use, addiction, overdose…

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Berkeley Media Studies Group @media-studies.bsky.social · 07/08/2026

Looking to communicate more strategically about overdose prevention? As International Overdose Awareness Day approaches, check out these communication resources from our partners at the National Overdose Prevention Network, including messaging guidance from BMSG. vist.ly/5dzd2

Messaging Tools & Resources — National Overdose Prevention Network

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Berkeley Media Studies Group @media-studies.bsky.social · 06/08/2026

We’re celebrating our co-director Pamela Mejia’s 16th work anniversary! As the head of BMSG research, Pam has informed the communications of many health agencies and community-based organizations. We admire Pam’s dedication to changing narratives about issues from domestic violence to fatphobia.

Woman smiling with eyes closed, wearing hoop earrings.

Audience seated in a conference room listening to a speaker.

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Berkeley Media Studies Group @media-studies.bsky.social · 04/08/2026

BMSG’s co-director Pamela Mejia recently presented messaging guidance for domestic violence prevention as a part of a CA Partnership to End Domestic Violence webinar. We are honored to be a part of this incredible work to reframe how people think about this critical issue.

Quote about respectful relationships by Pamela Mejia next to her photo.

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Berkeley Media Studies Group @media-studies.bsky.social · 03/08/2026

What would help organizations with aligned missions collaborate more effectively? The California Endowment explored that question during this year’s Health Advocates Retreat, which brought together 26 organizations. Thank you for hosting, TCE. BMSG was honored to be part of it!

Man in sunglasses speaking to seated group, others listening.

Two women and a man smiling at the camera in a room with patterned carpet.

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Berkeley Media Studies Group @media-studies.bsky.social · 24/07/2026

@narrativepower.bsky.social will be co-hosting a virtual event on 7/29. “The Stories We Tell: The Politics of Stigma and the Language of Immigration Reporting” will address ways to recenter social justice when talking about immigration. Register here: vist.ly/5cdks

The Stories We Tell: The Politics of Stigma and the Language of Immigration Reporting

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Berkeley Media Studies Group @media-studies.bsky.social · 22/07/2026

We’re grateful our program associate Charles Udeze joined this year’s Roots & Remedies Conference, which unites organizers from across the country as they work together towards equity. Thank you, Praxis Project, for creating opportunities to connect with advocates who envision an equitable future!

Person standing next to a banner that says '2023 Roots & Remedies New Mexico The Praxis Project'.

People seated at a conference with a panel on stage.

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Berkeley Media Studies Group @media-studies.bsky.social · 21/07/2026

It’s Black Women’s Equal Pay Day, yet almost no media covered this. It’s not surprising since this isn’t the only omission of Black women’s voices from the news. A report from BMSG and Unerased found that older Black women are missing from primetime cable news. Read more: vist.ly/5b29g

Text highlighting Black women 55+ in cable news at 1.6% with links and logos.

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Berkeley Media Studies Group @media-studies.bsky.social · 15/07/2026

Junk food marketing to kids leads to chronic illness. To learn more about the predatory tactics that companies use to cement kids as future customers, starting as early as infancy, check out Selling Candy to Kids, a new virtual exhibit from @nationalfoodmuseum.bsky.social vist.ly/5bck5

nationalfoodmuseum.org

Selling Candy To Kids | Influencing Kids' Food Choices

Food companies use spokescharacters and cartoon tie-ins on toys, games, and ads to embed their brand names and logos into the daily lives of children.

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Berkeley Media Studies Group @media-studies.bsky.social · 14/07/2026

Congratulations to our partners at CACHI on celebrating their 10 year anniversary! This Thursday, CACHI will be hosting a webinar reflecting on successes, challenges, and lessons learned from the past 10 years. Register here: vist.ly/5b7xm

CACHI event flyer for 'Building California’s Trust Infrastructure' on July 16 at 10:00AM PT with featured speakers and hosts listed.

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Berkeley Media Studies Group @media-studies.bsky.social · 10/07/2026

We’re feeling energized after participating in the Missouri Suicide Prevention Network Conference this week. Thanks to the Missouri Foundation for Health for supporting efforts to communicate effectively about firearm suicide, reduce stigma, and save lives.

Three people smiling at the camera with a presentation on Missouri Community Suicide Prevention Gathering in the background.

Three people talking at a booth during a trade show.

Two people talking at a networking event, with others sitting at tables in the background.

Pamphlets titled 'Together We Can Prevent Firearm Suicide' on a table.

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Berkeley Media Studies Group @media-studies.bsky.social · 06/07/2026

Government infrastructure is crucial for health justice, however many Americans view the government in a negative light. An upcoming webinar on 7/15 at 10 AM PT with FrameWorks Institute will show how advocates can transform mindsets to see the government as an agent of care. vist.ly/5aa4h

Rows of empty wooden chairs and desks in a parliamentary chamber.

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Berkeley Media Studies Group @media-studies.bsky.social · 02/07/2026

As we approach July 4th, we’re reflecting on freedom. Can advocates reclaim the term to have a more collectivist meaning? Insights from the FrameWorks Institute shows we can use strategic framing tactics to show how systems shape whether we're free to live thriving lives: vist.ly/59vqt

frameworksinstitute.org

Framing "Freedom" - FrameWorks Institute

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Berkeley Media Studies Group @media-studies.bsky.social · 01/07/2026

As the anniversaries of the deaths of Alton Sterling and Philando Castile near, BMSG’s Charles Udeze revisits news narratives of police violence in his latest blog. Drawing on one family’s story, he offers lessons for how advocates can challenge problematic framing. vist.ly/59qzv

Person with raised fist at a protest, with text overlay.

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Berkeley Media Studies Group @media-studies.bsky.social · 29/06/2026

Youth Radio is back! We are thrilled for this incredible resource that provides media training, career skills, and a creative outlet for young people. BMSG previously profiled Youth Radio’s violence prevention work: vist.ly/59hbx Learn more about Youth Radio: vist.ly/59hc3

Microphone and headphones in front of a computer with audio editing software.

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Berkeley Media Studies Group @media-studies.bsky.social · 26/06/2026

We're celebrating two years with Jocelyn Polanco, whose thoughtful coaching has helped advocates communicate complex issues with confidence. Whether she's leading a training or helping someone prepare for a national media interview, she brings dedication, care, and calm to every interaction.

People gathered around a table with large papers and colored shapes.

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Berkeley Media Studies Group @media-studies.bsky.social · 24/06/2026

BMSG’s training team recently led a message development and delivery training for UCSF’s Wraparound Project, which provides services for people who have experienced a violent injury. We are honored to support UCSF as they strive to reduce the re-injury rate and support survivors.

People sitting in a room watching a presentation with a projected slide labeled 'Your Turn'.

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Berkeley Media Studies Group @media-studies.bsky.social · 22/06/2026

Naming an enemy is a powerful organizing strategy, but is there another path? This piece explores how not naming an enemy can help advocates use a radically inclusive framework for social change, making a compelling argument for focusing on belonging, rather than “othering.” vist.ly/58nzs

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Berkeley Media Studies Group @media-studies.bsky.social · 19/06/2026

Happy Juneteenth! Today, we celebrate the end of slavery, honor generations of advocacy, and recommit ourselves to building a more just future. How are you celebrating today? We’d love to know!

Crowd with raised fists and text saying 'Happy Juneteenth!'

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Berkeley Media Studies Group @media-studies.bsky.social · 17/06/2026

Communicating about public health can be a stressful experience, especially in today’s polarized climate. That’s why our partners at the Public Health Communications Collaborative created a checklist for strengthening resilience while serving communities. Read the list here: vist.ly/585mf

Public health communicators are working under immense pressure. Drawing on lessons from public health, journalism, and emergency response, this checklist is a

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Berkeley Media Studies Group @media-studies.bsky.social · 16/06/2026

BMSG joined the Louisiana Foundation Against Sexual Assault Prevention Summit in NOLA, where our Head of Media Advocacy Rosaura Wardsworth led a session on framing sexual violence and communicating for change. We are grateful for the opportunity to support advocates creating safer communities!

A business workshop with participants seated at tables, viewing a presentation. The atmosphere is focused and professional.

Participants engaged in a business workshop, taking notes and using laptops in a conference room. The setting suggests a focused and professional atmosphere.

A group of 16 people poses for a photo in a conference room. The mood is friendly and professional.

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Berkeley Media Studies Group @media-studies.bsky.social · 15/06/2026

Narrative alignment can help strengthen movements for racial and health equity, but how do we get there? Defining a set of values known as a Narrative North Star can help. Learn more about the north star and the process used to create it during a teach-in on 6/22 at 2PM ET. vist.ly/57uz6

A collection of colorful sticky notes pinned to a bulletin board. The notes contain handwritten words and are organized in a random pattern, evoking a sense of brainstorming or idea generation.

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Berkeley Media Studies Group @media-studies.bsky.social · 12/06/2026

The Network for Public Health Law’s Racial Health Equity Legal and Policy Cohort helps participants navigate complex legal landscapes and build durable, equity-centered solutions that serve communities most impacted by structural racism. Apply for free by 6/26 at 5pm CT vist.ly/57k9z

networkforphl.org

Racial Health Equity Legal and Policy Cohort - Network for Public Health Law

The Racial Health Equity Legal and Policy Cohort (RHE Cohort) is a biennial, national program that supports governments, public health departments, community-based organizations, and advocates in using law and policy as tools to advance racial health equity.

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Berkeley Media Studies Group @media-studies.bsky.social · 11/06/2026

We can all agree on a need for unity, but do we agree on what unity means? New research from the FrameWorks Institute shows two polar understandings of what unity is — and how nonprofits can use framing and narrative to communicate ahead of the elections. Read more: vist.ly/57ff8

nonprofitquarterly.org

How Unity May Tear Us Apart | Nonprofit Quarterly | Civic News. Empowering Nonprofits. Advancing Justice.

We are continually told a story about how starkly divided we are. The obvious solution is that we need to embrace unity. But could the word—unity—actually be a trap for nonprofit leaders and grassroots organizers?

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Berkeley Media Studies Group @media-studies.bsky.social · 10/06/2026

As public health leaders increasingly recognize information environments as a social determinant of health, sponsorship deserves a larger place in the conversation. To learn more about Big Soda’s FIFA deal and to demand an end to it, visit vist.ly/57avm. #KickBigSodaOut

A campaign graphic promoting the removal of big soda sponsorships from the 2026 FIFA World Cup, featuring a soccer player's leg kicking a soda can.

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Berkeley Media Studies Group @media-studies.bsky.social · 05/06/2026

It can be difficult to sift through conflicting narratives about AI. In the FrameWorks Institute’s new report, “Framing the Social Implications of AI,” advocates can learn strategies to shape AI discourse. Read here: vist.ly/56rxr

frameworksinstitute.org

Framing the Social Implications of AI

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Berkeley Media Studies Group @media-studies.bsky.social · 04/06/2026

Berkeley's soda tax redirected nearly $12M to foster healthy communities. Xavier Morales argues in CalMatters it's a blueprint worth copying. Read more: vist.ly/56mrh To learn more about what made Berkeley's soda tax campaign successful, check out our analysis: vist.ly/56mrg

calmatters.org

Opinion | Berkeley's soda tax success story deserves wider attention across California

After Berkeley voters first passed a soda tax in 2014, the city has invested millions of dollars into impactful health programs.

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Berkeley Media Studies Group @media-studies.bsky.social · 04/06/2026

BMSG is celebrating the leadership of two new co-directors, Pamela Mejia and Katherine Schaff. The duo are stepping into their roles while Lori stays on in a founder role, sharing her experience from leading BMSG for 33 years. Read their thoughts on this transition here: vist.ly/56mhj

A group photo of people gathered outdoors with a text overlay announcing BMSG's next chapter. The atmosphere is friendly and optimistic.

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Berkeley Media Studies Group @media-studies.bsky.social · 03/06/2026

Government agencies and health organizations may be inadvertently funding misinformation sites through digital advertising. A study published in JAMA Network Open estimates that 1 in 10 health advertising dollars went to sites flagged for spreading misinformation. Read more: vist.ly/56hqn

news-medical.net

1 in 10 health ad dollars go to sites spreading misinformation

Advertising on health misinformation websites reached $336.4 million, with $35.7 million from public health entities, threatening credibility in health info.

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Berkeley Media Studies Group @media-studies.bsky.social · 02/06/2026

Recent funding cuts to SNAP have been the biggest in history. In this challenging policy landscape, advocates can reframe the narrative around SNAP. For guidance, check out this resource from BMSG’s archives: vist.ly/56d7f

Hands arranging fresh produce in a box against a text overlay about SNAP benefits. The tone is informative and community-focused.

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Berkeley Media Studies Group @media-studies.bsky.social · 01/06/2026

$1 trillion in Medicaid cuts. 15 million people losing coverage. 51,000 preventable deaths every year. These numbers are sobering. We’re lifting up #SevenDaysinJune, a grassroots effort that advances a broader frame: Protecting health is a core governing responsibility. sevendaysinjune.org

A powerful message against healthcare cuts with a call to action. The tone is serious and urgent.

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