Dear global citizens, dear friends,
“Education is not a privilege. It is a right. Education fosters peace.” – Inspired by Malala Yousafzai
“Injustice in health care is among the most shocking and inhumane forms of inequality.” – Inspired by Martin Luther King Jr.
Education holds immense significance for many Americans, including myself. We chose our neighborhood specifically for its reputable school district. Our son, Ethan, who has a rare genetic condition, is currently flourishing in public education. Federal regulations ensure he receives a Free Appropriate Public Education (FAPE) tailored to his needs, which varies based on each child’s situation. Thanks to the system, Ethan can attend a specialized classroom full-time.
However, it’s important to recognize that Ethan’s education isn’t truly free. Public schools in Texas are funded through taxes—contributions that everyone makes, regardless of whether they have children enrolled. Even those without kids in public education are, in essence, helping to finance the education of others.
Never have I been told that Ethan isn’t entitled to an education. Why? Because in our society, a K-12 education is considered a fundamental right for all children. Most community members willingly contribute to ensure that our youth receive quality education with updated resources and skilled teachers.
In contrast, I have frequently been told that my child isn’t entitled to health care. Health care, it seems, is not regarded as a fundamental right in our society. Many view it as unfair when a portion of their earnings subsidizes the medical care, therapies, and medications that Ethan and children like him require to thrive.
I’ve faced criticism for relying on public assistance and being labeled as a burden on society, with suggestions that we should find ways to afford Ethan’s health care ourselves.
So, why is education deemed a right while health care is not? It’s undeniable that both the education and health care systems in America are struggling. We see schools that are underfunded and failing, while children in affluent areas often receive a superior education compared to those in less wealthy communities.
Additionally, the push to privatize education, as advocated by certain policymakers, threatens to exacerbate inequalities, particularly for children with disabilities and those from low-income households. This is an injustice that cannot be overlooked. Yet, no one would completely deny access to education for children based on their families’ financial situations. Conversely, this is precisely what some aim to achieve with health care.
In our family, we cannot afford private schooling, and thankfully, public education is a viable option for us. All three of my children will eventually attend public school, where our financial status won’t limit their educational opportunities.
Here’s the reality: we also cannot afford all of Ethan’s necessary medical care. Even with insurance, the expenses that aren’t covered far exceed our earnings. Without Medicaid, meeting his health care needs would be impossible. Fortunately, state Medicaid programs help cover costs that private insurance leaves behind, costs we simply cannot manage on our own.
We are not exploiting the system or draining resources by seeking medical care for our son, just as you are not taking advantage of the system by enrolling your children in public schools. The United States prioritizes education for its youth, and citizens support that priority through their taxes. Why can’t we extend that same principle to health care, ensuring that all citizens receive the necessary care to live healthy lives? It’s time to recognize and legislate health care as the basic human right that it is.
This article was first published on July 10, 2023.
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Summary
This article explores the stark contrast between the recognition of education as a fundamental right in America and the ongoing debate surrounding health care access. It highlights personal experiences of navigating public education and health care systems, emphasizing the need for society to view health care as a basic human right, just as education is valued. The piece advocates for a shift in perspective to ensure that all citizens, regardless of their financial situations, can access necessary medical care.