The AIDS Foundation of Chicago (AFC) stands in solidarity with individuals and organizations in strong opposition to President Donald Trump’s executive orders. These orders aim to erode health care for 20 million people, including hundreds of thousands living with and vulnerable to HIV, and create an environment of prejudice and discrimination against people of color, immigrants, Muslims, LGBT people, women as well as members of other ethnic and geographical groups.

Photo: DNAInfoAFC opposes President Trump’s efforts to dismantle the Affordable Care Act (ACA), ban refugees, build a wall along the Mexico-U.S. border, suspend visas for anyone from certain Middle-Eastern and African countries as well as cut federal funding for sanctuary cities. These policies are contrary to sound HIV policy as well as civil and human rights.

President Trump’s executive orders further racial and ethnic discrimination and hinder progress for millions in this country by denying them basic elements of equality and non-discrimination. Such fueling of ethnic and religious hatred that leads to intolerance, racism and injustice is unacceptable. Comprehensive health care coverage and eliminating racism and discrimination are top priorities for AFC. Immediate and ongoing action is critical if we are to resist President Trump’s dangerous and discriminatory policies. Every person and every voice is needed. Please join us.

Here are three steps you can take to support communities targeted by the Trump administration:

I. Call your elected officials

Contact your senators and representatives. Call the Congressional switchboard at 202-224-3121 and ask to be directed to your senator or representative. Tell the operator why you are calling and what issue you’re concerned about. Urge them not to repeal the Affordable Care Act and to protect immigrants, Muslims and refugees.

Not sure who your representative is? Find out here (aidschicago.org/findyourlegislator). Keep calling them. Add them to your speed dial!

II. Sign up for our advocacy network and respond to action alerts

Visit AFC’S Action Center and sign up for our Online Action Bulletin. AFC provides quick facts and background on a variety of issues impacting people living with HIV and the communities hardest hit by the epidemic. Stay educated on the issues that matter most to our community, and then relay your concerns back to your elected officials via Step 1!

III. Engage: join and/or donate to local efforts and initiatives

Many of the efforts protecting health care and minority communities will be on the local level, so find organizations and coalitions in your community doing great work. Donations are always welcome and can be made at aidschicago.org/donate, but if that’s not possible, take time to learn about the organization, its active campaigns and volunteer your time. Below are a few examples to get you started: