Victim Safety and Protection, Childhood Nutrition, and more

March 1, 2024


 
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Hey Neighbors,

I hope this email finds you in good spirits!

I wanted to start off by wishing you a happy Friday and a happy Women's History Month. Every March gives us the chance to reflect on all the women who have made such a profound impact on our society, and to also advocate for causes to protect women across the world. With the rights of women seemingly under attack everyday, this Women's History Month has never been more important.

In this week's eblast, I want to tell you about some of the work I've been doing at the Capitol to empower and protect women, and also invite you to an event next week recognizing International Women's Day and providing some amazing resources and entertainment for you.

The rest of this email has more updates on the legislative session, events in the district, and more. Below are some helpful links to click on to jump between sections.

 
The Session Summary
It was an honor to be joined by State Representatives Jillian Gilchrest and Kate Farrar, our Lieutenant Governor Susan Bysiewicz, Beth Hamilton from the Alliance to End Sexual Violence, and so many more for a press conference yesterday on bills and concepts in the legislature pertaining to victim safety and protections. 

The bills and concepts we highlighted - including ones preventing retaliation for reporting a sexual assault, protecting those who help others being assaulted, and more - are meant to incentivize residents to help one another and protects those who are at their lowest moments.

You can watch the press conference in full here:
Press Conference on Victim Safety and Protections
And you can read the press release put out regarding the event here!
Each and every one of this bills and concepts are very important to me, and I believe their passage will move Connecticut in a positive and necessary direction. I'll keep you updated on their status as the legislative session progresses!
 
Next week is a big week for the General Assembly next week, with 22 public hearings being held! We are at a critical point in the legislative process, where we seek to hear from you, the residents of Connecticut.

If you're interested in testifying, sign up here.

 
The Community Calendar
I hope you will join me next Friday, March 8 from 3-5pm at the State Capitol for EmpowHer - a women's safety and resources summit. 
 
This event - celebrating International Women's Day - will feature a panel discussion, safety & survivor resources, a self-defense demo, recognitions, performances, and more. 
 
With the attacks on women's rights and autonomy we've seen throughout the country, this Women's History Month has never been more important. 
 
I hope you'll join me for this informative, enlightening, and entertaining afternoon!
 
In addition, I will be attending a "Women's HerStory Month" lunch reception Saturday, March 30 from 10am-1pm at the Cross Street Ame Zion Church in Middletown. I will provide more information on this event as it gets closer, but make sure to save the date!
 
Windsor
March 1, 10:30-11:30am - Groceries to Go

Location: Wilson Community Center

Supplementary food items and educational materials to clients 60 and older every other Friday from 10:30 AM to 11:30 AM at the L.P. Wilson Community Center.

 
March 3, 1-3pm - One Book One Windsor Discussion

Location: Windsor Town Hall and Zoom

 
March 8, 6:30-8:00pm - Phenomenal Women Award Ceremony

Location: Windsor Senior Center

Windsor Phenomenal Women Awards are presented to entities that foster greater trust, understanding, and solidarity. Join us in celebrating the third class of Phenomenal Women Honorees on

International Women's Day

 
March 23, 8-11am - NWP Pancake Breakfast

Location: Northwest Park

 
South Windsor
March 11, 5:30am - Social Justice & Racial Equity Commission

Location: Madden Room (1540 Sullivan Avenue, South Windsor, CT)

 
Bonus Bytes
 
Early Voting Information
Early voting is just around the corner! The early voting dates for Connecticut's 2024 presidential preference primary are March 26-28 and March 30 from 10am-6pm at early voting locations.

The actual primary is April 2 from 6am-8pm at your regular polling place.

I'm so proud of the work the legislature did last year to pass early voting in our state - making it easier for every resident to vote and strengthening our democracy.

For more information on early voting, please click here.

 
Childhood Nutrition Program

I am thrilled to share exciting news about my commitment to promoting the health and well-being of our community’s families and children. In response to the vital need for improved childhood nutrition, we are working on crafting comprehensive legislation that ensures mothers and children who are eligible for federal benefits are enrolled in these programs with ease and confidence.
 
WIC (Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, Children) enrollment in Connecticut is among the lowest in the country at 46%. Not maximizing participation in this program is resulting in worse outcomes for the health and nutrition of young children. 
 
Child nutrition is important for many reasons including:

  • Strengthening the child's immune system
  • Providing essential vitamins and minerals
  • Enhancing brain development
  • Encouraging physical growth
  • Setting the stage for healthy eating habits for a lifetime

Healthy nutrition is also tied to preventing chronic disease, improving mental health, and helping build strong bones and teeth.

As this priority bill moves through the legislative process, I urge you to show your support as we move forward. Together, we can make a lasting impact on the health and well-being of our youngest community members.

 
If you have any issues, concerns, or feedback, I would love to hear from you! Please feel free to contact me at 860-240-8585 if you ever need anything or by email at maryam.khan@cga.ct.gov.

Sincerely,

Maryam Khan

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