FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Indianapolis, IN – (May 27, 2020)
One of the most disheartening realities of the COVID-19 pandemic is the unequal effects it has on older Hoosiers’ health and well-being. Unfortunately, the data has shown this disheartening reality is not unique to Indiana; this is the poor state of matters the world over. Through Governor Holcomb’s executive orders, Hoosiers across the state are being sent back to work in five (5) phases. Whether we agree or disagree with this plan, we must all recognize that this is only the beginning of the COVID-19 crisis. We cannot continue to ignore this fact. We must come up with a much better plan.
Reluctantly, I must point out that one question has gone entirely unanswered during this crisis, “what policy will be put in place to protect the health, well-being, and lives of older Hoosiers?”
Last week, the American Association of Retired Persons (AARP), Indiana released a letter calling on Governor Holcomb, Dr. Kristina Box, and Dr. Jennifer Sullivan to make a critical correction to the COVID-19 transparency portal so that Hoosiers can make informed choices about their loved ones and “know what is happening in their communities and have trust in their leaders.”
That is why today, on National Senior Health and Wellness Day, I call on the administrative leadership of the State of Indiana to prioritize this correction to the state’s website by publicly releasing the total cases and the total death data on a daily basis, for both assisted living residents and staff, by long-term care facility. Furthermore, I call on the administrative leadership to set a strong deadline for the completion of this correction within the next seven (7) days.
In Indiana, we value, respect, and honor our elders. Their life experience guides our families and our communities through difficult times to help us grow while providing inspiration to the next generations. Older Hoosiers and their families should not have to wait for The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services to hopefully mandate this change in the months to come. We should show our respect by listening to what Hoosier seniors say and by using their voice to guide our decisions.
Hoosier leaders must also recognize that there are many regional agencies on aging across the State that have faced an enormous burden to provide for older Hoosiers over the past few months. They too have had to transition to work from home while at the same time providing care solutions in a rapidly changing, and increasingly expensive, COVID-safe setting. These agencies provide meals, transportation, access to essential medications and doctors’ appointments, with monies funded through State grant programs. We must provide immediate additional resources to these programs so they can adequately protect and care for older Hoosiers in the months to come.
Before COVID-19, older Hoosiers were already facing increased costs that affected their budgets. From the rising costs of insurance, housing and utilities, food, prescriptions, and other living necessities, many older adults have been forced to choose between paying for medical care and prescriptions or food and housing needs. Social Security quite simply does not cover the expenses.
For years, older Hoosiers have watched their income and assets literally evaporate before their eyes. And at the same time, Washington threatens to raid Social Security, cut Medicare and Medicaid funding just to “balance” an already bloated budget while the wealthy continue to get tax cuts and stimulus packages. This has only worsened during COVID-19 as many in DC view the Social Security fund like a personal piggy bank that they can use to offset economic hard times.
Enough is enough.
The State of Indiana must prioritize the health and well-being of older Hoosiers. As your State Senator, I will fight with confidence and strength to defend your well-being, regardless of the opposition.
I will fight so you can access free transportation to and from doctor’s appointments, the pharmacy, and the grocery store.
I will fight to protect your income, so you do not have to choose between life-saving medications and your home.
I will fight for your right to a high-quality life and access to COVID-safe living and medical arrangements now and in the months to come.
I will carry your voice and the issues important to you to Indianapolis and beyond.
To learn more about Belinda Drake’s campaign for Indiana State Senate or to get started as a volunteer, visit www.belindadrake.com and connect with the campaign on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram using the hashtag #BelieveINBelinda.
About Belinda Drake for Indiana State Senate:
Belinda Drake is a progressive Democratic candidate for Indiana State Senate in District 32. Committed to putting people over politics, Belinda will serve her communities with a bold and inclusive vision to bring positive change and progress for the people of Senate District 32 and for all Hoosiers. Belinda was born and raised in Gary, IN, and has been a resident and member of the far eastside Indianapolis community for the last 3 years. Belinda graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree with a major in political science and a minor in legal studies from IUPUI and has worked on the campaign trail for United States Congressman Andre Carson, Indiana State Senator J.D. Ford, City Council Candidate Crista Carlino, and many other Democratic party candidates at the state and local levels. Belinda has served on the board for the Indiana Stonewall Democrats and as the treasurer for the Lawrence Township Democrats. Belinda currently serves as the 7th District Chair for the Indiana Young Democrats and as the Racial Justice & Diversity Coordinator for Indiana NOW (National Organization for Women).
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MEDIA CONTACT
Amanda Schutte
Campaign Manager
Believe in Belinda
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Indianapolis, IN – (May 7, 2020) The shooting and death of Sean Reed yesterday is a terrible tragedy for the Northwest side, for the City of Indianapolis and for communities of color across the country. Black Hoosiers should not have to fear for their lives, only to have them ripped away through the use of force and violence.
As Hoosiers, we have a responsibility to recognize that Sean Reed is a victim of an ongoing American history where people of color are murdered without exception and without justice. He is a victim of a long history of events that just will not quit. He could have been any of us; our brothers and sisters, our parents or our grandparents and that stark reality is where the deep hurt resides for the black community. We continue to believe in the dream of a better American society while we simultaneously watch unnecessary violence take the lives of our brothers and sisters.
Sean Reed was a father, a son, a brother, an American, a veteran, and a patriot who proudly served his country in the US Airforce. His death has a shocking effect that ripples through the hearts of black parents across the country and especially those parents with sons. We must call upon both the Indiana State Police Department and the US Department of Justice to conduct an independent, timely, and thorough investigation into the death of Sean Reed so we can move towards justice.
I cannot imagine the dark cloud of despair and grief that must be felt by Sean’s family and his friends at this time. Their lives have been turned inside out and upended. I will continue to lift up Sean and his family in my prayers: you do not walk alone down this path. I know there is nothing that I can say that will console you at this time, but I do hope you find solace in the days and weeks to come. My deepest sympathies are with all of you.
Over the next few days, our community must unite around the principles of fairness and justice. The shock of Sean Reed’s death cannot become satiated by a mere hashtag that is consumed by the daily grind of the media cycle. We must become informed and engaged so we can advocate for solutions to this injustice. The State of Indiana has the unique ability to remedy inequalities but we must empower bold change.
In the days to come, I will launch a plan that is aimed at ending violence in Indiana and centers on how we can make a better LIFE* for all Hoosiers. As your Senator I will step up to protect people from unnecessary violence and offer real solutions for our communities.
The State legislature must pass legislation that mandates the use of body cams on LEOs statewide and couple that with progressive policies to document, store, and manage the video footage. We must invest in our police force through the initial and sustained training of police officers (including scenario-based training), decriminalize activities non-threatening to public safety, establish progressive approaches to mental health crises, and establish universal standards and reporting for the use of force.
The time has come for real work and progress on these issues. We have the ability to make change that saves lives and ends violence but we must have leaders who are willing to do this work.
About Belinda Drake for Indiana State Senate:
Belinda Drake is a progressive Democratic candidate for Indiana State Senate in District 32. Committed to putting people over politics, Belinda will serve her communities with a bold and inclusive vision to bring positive change and progress for the people of Senate District 32 and for all Hoosiers. Belinda was born and raised in Gary, IN, and has been a resident and member of the far eastside Indianapolis community for the last 3 years. Belinda graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree with a major in political science and a minor in legal studies from IUPUI and has worked on the campaign trail for United States Congressman Andre Carson, Indiana State Senator J.D. Ford, City Council Candidate Crista Carlino, and many other Democratic party candidates at the state and local levels. Belinda has served on the board for the Indiana Stonewall Democrats and as the treasurer for the Lawrence Township Democrats. Belinda currently serves as the 7th District Chair for the Indiana Young Democrats and as the Racial Justice & Diversity Coordinator for Indiana NOW (National Organization for Women). ###
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MEDIA CONTACT
Amanda Schutte
Campaign Manager
Believe in Belinda
Indiana Senate Democratic Caucus Virtual Presser on Hoosier Worker Safety
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Indianapolis, IN – (May 6, 2020) I recognize that front line workers are experiencing shortages of PPE while they take on this unprecedented healthcare crisis. We’ve all heard so many stories from nurses, doctors, respiratory therapists, and others that they are working with shortages of face masks, gowns, and respirators. These healthcare heroes have had to advocate for their own workplace safety during the pandemic.
As an essential worker myself and from conversations with other essential workers, our ability to access PPE and social distancing measures that are consistent with CDC guidelines has been one of the greatest challenges over the past 2 months.
In 2012, Indiana became a so-called “Right To Work” state and since then workers have experienced restrictions on their ability to freely organize and advocate for themselves on a level playing field with the corporations they work for. As Indiana phases into a “go back to work” strategy, it’s essential that all workers be able to speak-up freely and without fear of employer retaliation while they find safe solutions to address COVID-19 in the workplace.
I stand with Hoosier workers and will fight for your right to protect your health.
To learn more about Belinda Drake’s campaign for Indiana State Senate or to get started as a volunteer in the Field Captain program, visit www.belindadrake.com and connect with the campaign on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram using the hashtag #BelieveINBelinda.
About Belinda Drake for Indiana State Senate:
Belinda Drake is a progressive Democratic candidate for Indiana State Senate in District 32. Committed to putting people over politics, Belinda will serve her communities with a bold and inclusive vision to bring positive change and progress for the people of Senate District 32 and for all Hoosiers. Belinda was born and raised in Gary, IN, and has been a resident and member of the far eastside Indianapolis community for the last 3 years. Belinda graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree with a major in political science and a minor in legal studies from IUPUI and has worked on the campaign trail for United States Congressman Andre Carson, Indiana State Senator J.D. Ford, City Council Candidate Crista Carlino, and many other Democratic party candidates at the state and local levels. Belinda has served on the board for the Indiana Stonewall Democrats and as the treasurer for the Lawrence Township Democrats. Belinda currently serves as the 7th District Chair for the Indiana Young Democrats and as the Racial Justice & Diversity Coordinator for Indiana NOW (National Organization for Women). ###
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MEDIA CONTACT
Amanda Schutte
Campaign Manager
Believe in Belinda
Indianapolis, IN – (April 24, 2020) The Believe IN Belinda campaign to elect Belinda Drake to Indiana State Senate District 32 today announced the addition of Danielle Nimtz as Campaign Field Organizer. She will expand the campaign field organization and provide a grassroots organizational strategy that cultivates the health and wellbeing of voters, campaign volunteers, and all communities in the district. The campaign has reworked the organizational strategy to better align with health and safety guidelines during the COVID-19 pandemic while planning for victory in November.
Nimtz has extensive experience working with public and nonprofit organizations in Indianapolis. She is a candidate for a Master’s Degree in the Public Affairs program at Indiana University – Purdue University Indianapolis (IUPUI). She is a passionate community educator skilled at working in program design, community relations, family and student engagement, and data analysis. Danielle is a strong public administrator who believes that change is enacted through direct community and civic engagement. After completion of her formal education, Danielle plans to utilize her knowledge to empower marginalized communities in civic engagement and democratic processes.
“Joining the Believe IN Belinda team is a great opportunity to engage and mobilize constituents in Senate District 32 so they know that Belinda has a deep commitment to the people living in the district,” Nimtz said. “Communities on the southeast side of Indianapolis are in need of community resources and systems that address the real issues people are living with daily during the COVID-19 pandemic like access to healthcare, the affordability of housing, and the availability of jobs that will provide a living wage.”
As Field Organizer, Nimtz will be responsible for working directly with local community leaders and organizers within the area, initiating in-district voter communication, and securing support for Belinda’s election. One key tool that Nimtz will use is the Field Captain program to build a vast network of All-Star volunteers and grassroots organizers across the district.
“Our team’s commitment to organizing within the district along with the resources we are focusing on voter contact shows the importance I place on working with the people in our communities, “State Senate candidate Drake said. “Even more, this is how I plan to lead after I’m elected this November; by putting people over politics.”
To learn more about Belinda Drake’s campaign for Indiana State Senate or to get started as a volunteer in the Field Captain program, visit www.belindadrake.com and connect with the campaign on Facebook , Twitter and Instagram using the hashtag #BelieveINBelinda.
About Belinda Drake for Indiana State Senate:
Belinda Drake is a progressive Democratic candidate for Indiana State Senate in District 32. Committed to putting people over politics, Belinda will serve her communities with a bold and inclusive vision to bring positive change and progress for the people of Senate District 32 and for all Hoosiers. Belinda was born and raised in Gary, IN, and has been a resident and member of the far eastside Indianapolis community for the last 3 years. Belinda graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree with a major in political science and a minor in legal studies from IUPUI and has worked on the campaign trail for United States Congressman Andre Carson, Indiana State Senator J.D. Ford, City Council Candidate Crista Carlino, and many other Democratic party candidates at the state and local levels. Belinda has served on the board for the Indiana Stonewall Democrats and as the treasurer for the Lawrence Township Democrats. Belinda currently serves as the 7th District Chair for the Indiana Young Democrats and as the Racial Justice & Diversity Coordinator for Indiana NOW (National Organization for Women).
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MEDIA CONTACT
Amanda Schutte
Campaign Manager
Believe in Belinda
Indianapolis, IN – (February 5, 2020) – Indianapolis Democratic candidate Belinda Drake has announced that she withdrew her candidacy for Indiana House District 89 and filed to run for Indiana Senate District 32. She will challenge incumbent Aaron Freeman for the seat which includes precincts on the east and south sides of Indianapolis, including precincts in Warren, Franklin, Perry, and Center townships.
“Our communities need someone fighting for them in our general assembly, fighting for strong public education for our kids, fighting for a fair living wage for our families and I am ready to do just that,” stated Drake. Originally drafted for the House by 25 Women for 2020, an Indiana based organization dedicated to electing women to the general assembly, Drake did not make this decision lightly.
“At the end of the day, it is about doing what is best for the constituency and making sure that our State Assembly truly represents, and protects, the will of all Hoosiers,” Belinda explained. “We must come together as a community, as activists, and as leaders to show that when we work together, we are stronger, and better able to fight for what is needed to help Hoosiers thrive. From increasing education funding, the legalization of marijuana, or for another support mechanism, I will serve my communities with a bold and inclusive vision that will bring positive change and progress for all Hoosiers.”
To learn more about Belinda Drake’s campaign for Indiana State Senate and where she stands on the issues that matter most to Hoosiers, visit www.belindadrake.com and connect with the campaign on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram using the hashtag #BelieveINBelinda.
About Belinda Drake for Indiana State Senate:
Belinda Drake is a progressive Democratic candidate for Indiana State Senate in District 32. Committed to putting people and policies over politics, Belinda will serve her communities with a bold and inclusive vision to bring positive change and progress for the people of Senate District 32 and for all Hoosiers. Belinda was born and raised in Gary, IN, and has been a resident and member of the far eastside Indianapolis community for the last 3 years. Belinda graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree with a major in political science and a minor in legal studies from IUPUI and has worked on the campaign trail for United States Congressman Andre Carson, Indiana State Senator J.D. Ford, City Council Candidate Crista Carlino, and many other Democratic party candidates at the state and local levels. Belinda has served on the board for the Indiana Stonewall Democrats and as the treasurer for the Lawrence Township Democrats. Belinda currently serves as the 7th District Chair for the Indiana Young Democrats and as the Racial Justice & Diversity Coordinator for Indiana NOW (National Organization for Women).
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MEDIA CONTACT
Amanda Schutte
Campaign Manager
Believe in Belinda
Indianapolis, IN – (January 13, 2020) On Thursday, January 30th from 5-6:30pm CST, former Gary, IN Mayor Karen Freeman-Wilson will host a fundraiser in support of Belinda Drake’s campaign for IN State Representative of House District 89. The event will be held at 621 S Lake St in Gary, IN.
Freeman-Wilson, who served as Mayor of her hometown of Gary, IN from 2012-2019, was the first woman to lead the city of Gary and the first African-American female mayor elected in the state of Indiana. Freeman-Wilson is a long-time mentor of Belinda Drake, whose campaign would also make Indiana history. If elected, Drake would become the first African-American LGBTQ+ woman to be elected to the IN statehouse.
Drake, who was born and raised in Gary, IN, is running to represent District 89, which includes precincts on the east and southeast side of Indianapolis, Beech Grove and Cumberland, and precincts in Warren, Center, Perry and Franklin townships.
“I am pleased to support Belinda Drake because she is a fresh voice for the citizens of Indiana,” said Freeman-Wilson. “As someone who has lived in two key areas of the state, she understands that by providing conscientious representation to the citizens of Indianapolis, all Hoosiers throughout the state will benefit.”
Light refreshments will be served at the fundraiser, which is open to the public and the media. Suggested minimum donation is $100, but all donation amounts are welcomed and appreciated. In addition to former Mayor Freeman-Wilson, other event co-hosts include Jervai Dumas, Preston Dunham, William Godwin, and Sharon Levels.
“I’m honored to have the mentorship and support of former Mayor Karen Freeman-Wilson,” said Drake. “This will be a homecoming for me. Though I am running to represent the people of House District 89, I will always be from Gary and will always be fighting for all of my communities throughout Indiana.”
Indianapolis, IN – (January 10, 2020) Beginning Saturday, January 11th, Belinda Drake, candidate for Indiana State Representative of House District 89, will be conducting a 4-week, 4-stop listening tour around the district. The ‘Listening for Life’, will provide opportunities for voters to speak with Drake and share their concerns about issues impacting them and their community.
District 89 includes precincts on the east and southeast side of Indianapolis, Beech Grove and Cumberland, in addition to precincts in Warren, Center, Perry and Franklin townships.
“Our campaign is powered by the people,” said Drake. “This tour is not about me as a candidate. It’s about the voters of District 89 and the issues that matter most to them. I want to hear directly from the people about what I can do to improve their lives when I’m elected to represent this district.”
All are welcome to attend the Listening for Life tour and speak with Drake. The tour stops include:
11am-12pm
Art’s Skillet
9976 E Washington St, Indianapolis
11am-12pm
Coal Yard Coffee
5547 Bonna Ave, Indianapolis
11am-12pm
Warren Public Library
9701 E 21st St, Indianapolis
11am-12pm
Hornet Park Community Center
5245 Hornet Ave, Beech Grove
The ‘Listening for Life’ tour name is a nod to Drake’s LIFE* campaign platform, which stands for:
This is a voter-focused event, however, the media is also welcome to attend. Drake will be available to speak with the media before each tour stop from 10:30-11:00 am or immediately following the event.
To learn more about Belinda Drake’s campaign for Indiana State Representative, visit www.belindadrake.com and connect with the campaign on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram using the hashtag #BelieveINBelinda.
Indiana House District 89 Democratic candidate, Belinda Drake, welcomes the community to a free campaign launch event on December 5th at Hornet Park Community Center
Indianapolis, IN – (December 3, 2019) Belinda Drake will formally launch her campaign for Indiana State House Representative, District 89, during a free community event on Thursday, December 5, 2019, from 6:00 pm-8:00 pm at the Hornet Park Community Center in Beech Grove. During the 2020 campaign season, Drake will run on the Democratic ticket. If elected, Drake would be the first openly LGBTQ+ African-American woman elected to the Indiana state legislature.
District 89 includes precincts on the east and southeast side of Indianapolis, Beech Grove and Cumberland, in addition to precincts in Warren, Center, Perry and Franklin townships.
“I’m proud to announce my candidacy for IN State Representative of District 89,” said Drake. “I’m running as a progressive Democratic candidate to bring bold and inclusive change to the State of Indiana. If elected, I promise to represent and serve my communities with transparency and integrity, and to build a better life not only for the people of District 89, but also for all Hoosiers across the state.”
“Please join us at a special campaign launch event on Thursday, December 5th, where I will be sharing more details about why I’m running and speaking with voters about the issues that matter most to them,” said Drake.
The public and media are invited to attend the Belinda Drake campaign launch event on Thursday, December 5, 2019, from 6:00 pm-8:00 pm at the Hornet Community Center in Beech Grove. Attendees will have the opportunity to hear from local community leaders including Leigh Riley-Evans and small business owner Marvin Taylor. Belinda will be there to meet everyone and answer any questions about her campaign. Light appetizers and refreshments will be served at this free, family-friendly event. Please RSVP for the event on Eventbrite.
To learn more about Belinda Drake’s campaign for Indiana State Representative, visit www.belindadrake.com and connect with the campaign on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram using the hashtag #BelieveINBelinda.
About Belinda Drake for Indiana State Representative:
Belinda Drake is a progressive Democratic candidate for Indiana House Representative in District 89. Committed to putting people and policies over politics, Belinda will serve her communities with a bold and inclusive vision to bring positive change and progress for the people of House District 89 and for all Hoosiers. Belinda was born and raised in Gary, IN, and has been a resident and member of the far eastside Indianapolis community for the last 3 years. Belinda graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree with a major in political science and a minor in legal studies from IUPUI and has worked on the campaign trail for United States Congressman Andre Carson, Indiana State Senator J.D. Ford, City Council Candidate Crista Carlino, and many other Democratic party candidates at the state and local levels. Belinda has served on the board for the Indiana Stonewall Democrats and as the treasurer for the Lawrence Township Democrats. Belinda currently serves as the 7th District Chair for the Indiana Young Democrats and as the Racial Justice & Diversity Coordinator for Indiana NOW (National Organization for Women).
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MEDIA CONTACT
Kristen Proctor
Communications Director
Believe in Belinda
GENERAL CAMPAIGN INQUIRIES
Join us at Hornet Park Community Center in Beech Grove on Thursday, Dec. 5th, from 6-8pm, for the official campaign launch party of progressive Democrat, Belinda Drake for IN State Representative of House District 89!
Belinda has spent her entire career as a public servant, and she is committed to putting people and policies over politics.
Belinda believes in us. She is ready to represent and serve our communities with a bold and inclusive vision to bring about positive change and progress for the people of House District 89 – and for all Hoosiers.
EVENT DETAILS:
SUPPORT NEEDS:
NOTE FROM BELINDA:
I’m running for the single mothers who are underpaid. I’m running for our loved ones who can’t afford live-saving healthcare. I’m running for the young adults with crushing student loan debt. I’m running for all of the Hoosiers who have lost their lives to the opioid crisis.
I’m running for the fathers who will never see their children again due to a broken criminal justice system. I’m running for the teachers struggling to feed themselves and their childre, while taking care of other peoples’ children. I’m running for everyone who lives paycheck to paycheck to keep a roof over their heads. I’m running for those who have no roofs at all.
I’m running for the marginalized communities whose rights and humanity are under attack. I’m running to keep our children safe from gun violence.
I’m running for every young, black, LGBTQ+ girl who never had the opportunity to see someone who looks like her in office growing up.
I’m running, and I will WIN. Not just for myself, but for every Hoosier who has ever felt left behind by our broken political system.
I BELIEVE in the people of IN House District 89, because I am one of you. So I’m asking you to believe in me and vote Belinda Drake for IN State Rep in 2020.