Addressing pandemic detriments

To fully address the detriments of COVID- 19, relief needs to be addressed worldwide. A better future on a local and global scale is achievable through working toward a better future together.

COVID- 19 has impacted industries specific to Pittsburgh. Energy and health care are two of our top five leading industries. Due to less demand for oil and electric consumption, the energy market has been impacted. UPMC is a nationally ranked medical center. With a district making such positive impacts medically, we cannot continue to overwhelm our front- line workers with COVID cases.

We’re home to an international airport, and with the travel industry being impacted, so is our community. Helping the airport business means helping Pittsburgh get back to work.

The International Affairs Budget helps fund overseas developments by promoting agricultural advancement, eliminating hunger and poverty, and providing life- saving medications. The budget also helps protect our national security, promote the U. S. economy and creates American jobs.

When we invest in developing nations, their economies grow and become an untapped market for U. S. exports. The budget currently makes up less than 1% of total congressional spending.

U. S. Rep. Mike Doyle, D- Forest Hills, has graciously supported increasing funds for the IAB. He has co- sponsored bills that have provided aid in developing nations. Pittsburghers should take the lead in advocating for protecting the IAB because while other countries may seem to be a world away, their progress helps our city thrive.

MEGAN MARIE OWENS

Wilkins

The writer is a political affairs ambassador for The Borgen Project.