February is Black History Month

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February 3, 2022
Last week marked the eighth decade since the Holocaust began. On January 27th, I joined the rest of the globe in honoring those millions of lives lost during the Holocaust, a dark stain on our worlds history.

During this year's Holocaust remembrance day though, I am reminded that violent antisemitism remains a threat — as we witnessed at a Texas synagogue this month and the Tennessee school district ban of "Maus",  a Holocaust graphic novel. I read "Maus" while taking a course on literature surrounding the Holocaust in college. The novel's historic message had a profound effect on me and have never been more relevant. The Jewish community continues to face ongoing threats, and we must not tolerate it.
The United States Holocaust Memorial Museum streamed a video of to honor those who were lost, survivors, and individuals who chose to help. I encourage you to watch that video below, and after you watch the program, find names to read and victims and survivors to remember at this link. I also encourage you to stay educated on events surrounding the Holocaust by also following the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum on twitter.
 
 
Coffee & Conversation
TOMORROW from 8AM - 9AM, I will join some of my legislative colleagues for a coffee hour to discuss agendas, and hear your priorities. With session just under a week away, this is a great opportunity to share your questions, ideas, concerns, and solutions with us.

No registration is needed for the event, just click the button below to join us next week!
Join the Conversation
 
Protecting Our Children Online
[CONTENT WARNING] - Discussion about online abuse and exploitation of children below:

On Tuesday, February 8th at 7PM, I will host a virtual discussion on how to protect our children from the threat of online abuse and exploitation. My dear friend and founder of Safe from Online Sex Abuse (SOSA), Roo Powell, will join the discussion to offer insight on just how kids are being targeted.

As the Vice-Chair of the Committee on Children, addressing the growing concerns of online abuse and exploitation is a priority of mine in the legislature. I am excited that Roo will bring a wealth of knowledge on what other states have already implemented to combat this issue in order to keep our kids safe.

I hope you will join us for this important discussion either via Zoom, or Facebook LIVE, just click the button below to register. There will also be an opportunity to ask questions during the event, but if you would feel more comfortable submitting your questions anonymously, you can click the button below and send it in ahead of time.
Register for Discussion
Submit a Question
 
Black History Month
We celebrate the achievements, accomplishments and contributions Black Americans have made to this country, of which there are many, each February during National Black History Month. President Gerald Ford made it official in 1976.
For a list of African American firsts, from Business and Labor, Medicine and Health and more please click here.

This month is also a good time to shine a light on the struggle, the injustice and systemic racism Black Americans still face today despite their achievements, accomplishments, and contributions.

I'm hoping you and your family take time to celebrate Black Americans, their achievements, their culture and become familiar with their stories. Black history is American history and it has been for a very long time.
As we recognize Black History Month, I would like to note the tragic passing of Cheslie Kryst. Cheslie, only 30 years old, was crowned Miss USA in 2019 and went on to finish in the top 10 of the Miss Universe Competition. An attorney dedicating much of her life toward correcting racial disparities in the criminal justice system, she practiced at a firm in North Carolina where she often worked pro-bono for prisoners who were unjustly sentenced. Additionally, she was a writer with a popular blog that helped women find solutions to successful dressing for the workplace (which most women will share is harder than it sounds - especially if you are on a budget and re-entering the workforce), and a television correspondent. She was also a beloved friend and daughter. Her accomplishments were remarkable and inspired so many. Cheslie died by suicide this past week. 

I encourage everyone to be kind to those around them as you never know what challenges others are facing. If you or a loved one are facing thoughts of self harm, mental health crisis, or suicide - please call 1-800-273-TALK (8255) or click here.
 
2022 Session
Opening day is right around the corner! We are currently hard at work drafting legislation and setting priorities for the coming legislative session.

Stay up to date with everything happening during the session by making sure you are signed up to receive eblasts and tune in to CT-N

 on Wednesday, February 9 at 10AM to watch as we gavel into the 2022 legislative session. 
 
FREE COVID Tests & N-95 Masks
This is just a reminder that every home in the U.S. is eligible to order 4 free at-⁠home COVID-⁠19 tests completely FREE.

If you haven't ordered yours already, you can click the button or image below, enter your mailing information on the USPS webpage, and then will receive an emailed confirmation code. you can also call 1(800) 232 - 0233 or 1(888) 720 - 7489 (TTY). It's that easy!

The USPS says orders will usually ship within 7-12 days.
Order FREE At-Home COVID Test
You are also eligible to receive FREE N-95 masks at pharmacies and community health centers.

Here is all you need to know about collecting your free masks next week:
 
Scam Spotlight
Avoiding scams has become nearly impossible! In an effort to protect you and keep you alert, I will be sharing a series of short informational videos on Facebook I am calling the Scam Spotlight.
 
In my inaugural Scam Spotlight, I am spreading the word on business related scams in our communities. Small Businesses can fall victim to scams just as easily as anyone else. Do you know how to spot a business scam? Check it out in the Scam Spotlight below, and see what steps you can take to keep your small business safe.

Be on the lookout for the next Scam Spotlight, and remember if you miss it on Facebook, visit my webpage, or click the button below.
 
Introduction to Scam Spotlight