What an Equitable Childhood and Society Looks Like:  Basic Childhood and Caregiver Rights and Supports

 

Children’s HealthWatch Mission, Vision, and Values Statements

Mission Statement: To achieve health equity for young children and
their families by advancing research to transform policy.

Vision Statement: Children’s HealthWatch envisions a future where
equitable policies ensure ALL children and their families in the US
flourish.

Values Statement: Children’s HealthWatch upholds that regardless
of race, ethnicity, national origin, religion, ability, citizenship,
socio-economic status, sexual orientation and gender identity, ALL
children and their families have the inherent right to an equitable
society that prioritizes their health and economic well-being.

 

Children’s HealthWatch Affirmation Statement

We at Children’s HealthWatch affirm that ALL children in the United States thrive when we respond to their realities and that they have the right to:

  • be free of institutionalized racism, sexism, and other forms of discrimination
  • accessible nutritious food that builds their minds and bodies
  • safe, healthy, affordable, and well-maintained housing with clean water, adequate space, and air quality, and heating and cooling
  • clean, well-fitting, and weather-appropriate clothing, outerwear, and shoes
  • safe neighborhoods with green space to encourage physical activity and that support social development
  • safe and healthy environments that are free of fear of any kind of violence or abuse and that encourage and support physical, mental, and emotional development
  • health insurance and medical care including dental, eye, and behavioral/socioemotional care
  • a high-quality education that prepares them to be productive members of society in adulthood
  • health-protective social infrastructure programs that provide income or material support, such as SNAP, WIC, TANF and EITC/CTC to ensure caregivers have the tools and resources to adequately feed, clothe and house them
  • THEIR best interests being represented by policymakers on the local, state, and federal levels
  • be.children. They have the right to experience the joys of childhood without undue worry, concern, or fear

 

This is a living document that we will refine over time as a learning organization committed to Anti-Racism.