Vaccinating the most vulnerable a priority

Let’s be honest. The vaccine roll-out has been a disaster. People are jumping the line. Appointments are being canceled at the last minute because of supply chain issues. And to make matters worse, people of privilege are getting their shots at a far higher rate than those of color and particularly those who are economically disadvantaged.

Of course, there are many reasons for this vaccine gap. First, some in minority communities distrust “the system.” There is a distrust of government services and doctors in general. Second, many do not have the economic means, such as access to transportation or technological resources to sign up and play the registration game to get on the list. If you don’t have a computer or internet access, then how can you go online to get vaccinated? Third, some are uncomfortable giving their social security numbers to government authorities. But the main reason is wealth. The number of vaccines in wealthier urban neighborhoods is four times that of the rates in poorer communities. NYC Mayor De Blasio states this plainly, “The truth is folks who have more privilege are best able to navigate this process.”

As Jews, Christians and Muslims, we are united in making sure that the most vulnerable in our community have equal access to justice, education and human rights. We stand as local religious leaders and members of the Wissahickon Faith Community Association in a resounding call for the health system in Montgomery County, and the local health administrators to make sure that the most vulnerable, the poorest, and those most susceptible to disease are given priority in the administration of the vaccine. The book of Deuteronomy teaches “Justice Justice you shall pursue.” Justice must be observed in the courtroom, on the street and also in the administration of the most basic human rights, health care.

We are willing to wait our turn. We are also willing to assist in aiding the process. However, those who have limited resources, who have to travel on buses to get to work, the elderly living alone, and those who don’t have basic health care need their shots. Please speak out for those who have no voice and aid the most vulnerable.