By Bob Katzen
“Ensuring every veteran receives the proper status and respect they deserve is a top priority of the Executive Office of Veterans Services. The injustices faced by LGBTQ+ service members are a stain on our history that we are committed to erasing. Massachusetts is leading the way when it comes to supporting our veterans and this initiative is a crucial step to healing past wounds and fostering a more inclusive military community.”
—Secretary Jon Santiago of the Massachusetts Executive Office of Veterans Services, applauding President Joe Biden’s decision to pardon thousands of former U.S. service members convicted under the now-repealed Article 125 of the Uniform Code of Military Justice, which criminalized consensual gay sex. This law, in effect since 1951, was revised in 2013 to prohibit only forcible acts.
“When someone is struggling with feelings of despair, a caring and compassionate presence on the other end of the 988 Lifeline can be lifesaving. Suicide prevention is a critical public health responsibility and the 988 Lifeline is a resource that offers emotional support at some of the most vulnerable moments in a person’s life.”
—State Public Health Commissioner Robbie Goldstein on the Department of Public Health’s announced that $8.3 million in state and federal grant funding will be awarded to five community organizations to support the continuation of services for the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline Network.
“Fireworks are inherently dangerous. Possessing or using them in Massachusetts requires licensing and certification. They are illegal for personal use here even if purchased legally in another state. These laws work: the rate of fireworks injuries in Massachusetts is about one-fifth the national average.”
— State Fire Marshal Davine on the upcoming 4th of July celebrations.