Many other pressing issues were raised in the JuneTown Hall meeting, including the impact on mental health, increasing drug use, and the difficult process of applying for Medicaid. We were glad to hear from representatives of many Marshallese-led organizations, including the newly organized AenEmmaan, ACOM, and MEI.
AenEmman, a new organization focused on men’s wellness led by Patrick Boaz, announced that they are enrolling men in parenting classes. They have contracted with UAMS to teach men’s wellness classes that address parenting and relationship skills as well as mental wellness. They also discussed the role of sports and scouting to address some issues affecting youth and families.
ACOM organized another successful trip to the Mexican border for those who need to get their I-94 forms stamped. They also reported that Rep. Womack and Bozeman are sponsoring the CIFA bill proposed by Sen. Hirono. Their two big events this summer went well. They held a meet and greet and hosted a special dinner honoring their Telemour youth at Crystal Bridges on June 23. The program included remarks from the Crystal Bridges programs director, Consul General Eldon Alik, and collaborating artist. The other big event, Stroll the Atoll 2021, was an all-day program in Downtown Shiloh Square on July 31 hosting community vendors and booths atoll. There were also cultural dances and a fashion show at night.
Momo Milne raised concerns about an increase in drug use among Marshallese youth, particularly marijuana and meth which are both cheap and gives a big high. Kids as young as 11 have tested positive for it. Parents sign away parental rights to drug babies. One young man was released from care and went missing. His body was found 1 month later in a lake. One of the pastors present said we can address the root of these problems in families. Momo stressed the importance of manit and teaching how to recognize the signs of drug use.
Richard Laraya reported for MEI – they have many programs including a continued video campaigns for public health outreach promoting vaccination against COVID-19, advocacy for women and LGBT youth. They are returning to their normal programming like student interns, advocacy, and supporting community-school partnerships in other communities to grow advocacy capacity outside Springdale in Marshallese communities like Spokane and Dubuque.
The COVID-19 pandemic continues. Though it is difficult to confirm vaccination rates by ethnic group, Dr. Riklon reports that everyone over 60 has been vaccinated and there is a high rate of vaccination among all other age groups in the Marshallese community. With the deaths and hardship due to the COVID-19 pandemic still fresh in our memories, Consul General Alik asked us to think about a memorial for our loved ones who died from COVID-19 this past year: “Kom̧ij wanlaļtok in kōnono n̄an kajutak juon memorial n̄an ro ri nan̄inmej im jiban̄ rein.”
Last, the Consulate reviewed healthcare options — kids 18 and younger are covered under AR Kids. Medicaid is income-based. People over 65 apply for Medicare. Healthcare at the Community Pharmacy can be reimbursed. And ACOM, MEI and AenEmman can help people apply, re-apply for Medicaid or review their current insurance. You can also arrange to talk with someone at the Consulate.