To help at home, we have to help afar

There's no denying that communities across the globe have been affected by the coronavirus. On the news we have seen the novel virus shut down Italy, and in our own lives we've seen our daily routine change drastically to accommodate the new threat. The fight is not over yet. COVID-19 was slow to reach Africa, yet the impact made since early April has been devastating. More than 5,000 cases and 500 deaths have been recorded in Africa since the first week of April, according to UN News. South Sudan, a country with a population of about 11 million people, only has four ventilators and 24 ICU beds.

It is imperative that the U.S. take action to help those abroad. The International Affairs Budget supports many programs, one of which works to fight pandemic diseases, an issue pertinent now more than ever.

The Trump Administration has proposed a 22 percent cut to this budget, which only makes up less than a mere 1 percent of the overall budget. This is a counterproductive proposal not only because it will stop the relief for the effects of coronavirus around the world, but also because these programs benefit the U.S. by creating new jobs and help to protect our national security. Cutting funding would be doing a disservice to the American people.

As constituents, it is necessary to tell the men and women of Congress what is important to citizens of the United States. Calling and emailing representatives and urging them to support the The International Affairs Budget which fights to improve conditions for those living in poverty is essential. To support the International Affairs Budget or to learn more, visit The Borgen Project action center to find your representatives and make your voice heard.

Sophia Neubaum

Crystal Lake