Physicians for Social Responsibility Maine (PSR Maine): 2024 Achievements and Initiatives November 20, 2024

Throughout 2024, PSR Maine has actively engaged in a variety of initiatives aimed at promoting public health, environmental sustainability, and social responsibility. The organization’s efforts have encompassed leadership transitions, educational programs, advocacy campaigns, and community engagement activities, all contributing to its mission of fostering a healthier and safer Maine.

Leadership and Organizational Development

In 2024, PSR Maine experienced significant organizational growth, including the appointment of a new board member, Dr. Daniel Oppenheim, and the start of a new program – the Alliance of Maine Health Professionals for Climate Action (detailed below).

Support Young Health Professionals

PSR Maine supports the student chapter at the University of New England. Over the year we have provided expert speakers, funding and swag, and mentorship to the student chapter. Recently, we assisted 12 students to become members in the Maine Public Health Association.

Collaborations and Partnerships

PSR Maine has established alliances with various organizations to amplify its impact:

• Alliance of Maine Health Professionals for Climate Action (the Alliance): PSR Maine launched this alliance in 2024 to bring together all healthcare professionals committed to addressing the health impacts of climate change in Maine.
• Mainers Ending Nuclear Dangers (MEND): PSR Maine coordinates this collaboration of leaders from over a dozen statewide groups. MEND also collaborates with Back from the Brink, a national campaign to advocate for nuclear disarmament and raise awareness about the dangers of nuclear weapons.

Educational Programs and Webinars

PSR Maine has prioritized education by hosting and co-sponsoring a series of webinars and events designed to inform healthcare professionals and the public about critical health topics:

• A Conversation with Annie Jacobsen: Learn How You Can Help Prevent the Ultimate Catastrophe (May 29, 2024): This virtual event featured investigative journalist Annie Jacobsen discussing nuclear threats and prevention strategies.
• Building a World Without Nuclear Weapons: An Urgent Imperative (January 5, 2024): This virtual event, co-sponsored by PSR Maine, focused on the increasing threat of nuclear war and what ordinary citizens can do to prevent it.
• Radioactive: The Women of Three Mile Island, Gender, Environmental Justice, and the Future of Nuclear Power (March 28, 2024): This commemorative webinar, co-sponsored by PSR Maine, was a collaboration between The Women of Three Mile Island film team, Beyond Nuclear, and Sierra Club to inform the public about the future of nuclear power and the new film, Radioactive, which was released in March, 2024.
• Model Rule for Zero-Emission Space & Water Heaters (October 30, 2024): In collaboration with the Northeast States for Coordinated Air Use Management (NESCAUM), PSR Maine promoted a webinar on zero-emission heating equipment standards.
• The Critical Role of Healthcare Professionals in the Climate Crisis (November 21, 2024): PSR Maine and the Alliance co-sponsored a webinar highlighted the importance of healthcare professionals in addressing climate change and its health impacts with their patients, family, neighbors, and friends.

Advocacy and Legislative Engagement

PSR Maine has actively participated in over 25 advocacy efforts to influence policy and raise awareness on key issues:

• Gun Safety Advocacy: The organization urged supporters to contact Governor Mills to prioritize gun safety legislation, including a 72-hour waiting period and a bump stock ban.
• Climate Action: PSR Maine collaborated with partners to promote zero-emission standards for HVAC systems and water heaters, addressing building pollution to improve air quality and public health.
• Nuclear Disarmament: The organization encouraged local and state officials to honor nuclear victims and advocate for nuclear disarmament on the anniversaries of Hiroshima and Nagasaki.
• Federal legislation: PSR Maine endorsed the Polluters Pays Climate Fund Act of 2024, the Corner Post Reversal Act, and the Children’s Health Protection Act of 2024.

Community Engagement and Events

PSR Maine has organized and participated in various community events to foster public engagement:

• Dr. Bernard Lown Portrait Unveiling (June 7, 2024): The organization co-hosted the unveiling of a portrait honoring Nobel Peace Prize Laureate Dr. Bernard Lown, celebrating his contributions to medicine and peace.
• Safe Schools, Safe Communities Campaign: The organization supported the Maine Gun Safety Coalition’s initiative to gather signatures for an Extreme Risk Protection Order to be put on the ballot, aiming to prevent gun violence through community action.

Publications and Resources

PSR Maine helped to develop and disseminate resources to educate and inform the public:

• Environmental Health Fact Sheets: We worked with Sierra Club and Conservation Law Foundation to create a fact sheet on Zero-Emission Standards for HVACs and Water Heaters, providing valuable information to the public and policymakers.

Conclusion

In 2024, PSR Maine has demonstrated a steadfast commitment to promoting public health, environmental sustainability, and social responsibility. Through education, advocacy, community engagement, and strategic partnerships, the organization has made significant strides in addressing critical issues affecting the health and well-being of Maine residents.