Thank You Representative Blumenauer

Photo: Wikipedia Commons

2.5 billion people around the world today do not have access to basic sanitation. 

Through legislation such as the Senator Paul Simon Water for the World Act, American leaders have aimed to bring clean water and toilets to the world’s poorest more cost effectively – at no extra cost to American taxpayers. 

Increasing access to water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) is a key priority for both Democrats and Republicans. Legislation has been introduced in the House by Congressmen Poe (R-TX) and Blumenauer (D-OR). By working across the aisle, Representative Blumenauer has helped to ensure that all children have access to a toilet. 

Representative Blumenauer fully understands the power of music events and movements to help end extreme poverty, “But the question remains, after the crowds have left, the acts have packed up their gear and the TV cameras are off, do these showings of public support achieve their intended goals? The answer is a resounding "yes". There are many pressing issues fighting for the attention of policymakers. It is no longer enough to simply be right: you also have to be able to draw the attention of these politicians, and the world, in order to demonstrate why your issue is the one that deserves action.”

Last September, Representative Blumenauer expressed his support for the Global Citizen Festival and the amazing policy outcomes that have been achieved thanks to the actions taken by Global Citizens. Representative Blumenauer explains that he, “got involved with the Global Citizen Festival to draw attention to the need for clean and sanitation development to support equality for women and girls who together spend 200m hours a day around the world collecting water for their families. These girls' lives could change at very little cost. International development experts know it. Water experts know it. But we need the 60,000 people attending the concert and the 50 million people watching around the globe to know it, too. Once they are informed, they can take the message back to their communities, their churches, their Girl Scout groups, and their book clubs. They can take action to make equitable and sustainable access to clean water for the nearly 800 million men, women and children who don't have it, and improving sanitation for the 2.5 billion without even the most basic services, a reality. That's when change starts to happen.”

Thank Representative Blumenauer for his leadership on increasing access to water, toilets & sanitation. Tweet at Representative Blumenauer now!