Wednesday, April 7, 2010

World Health Day 2010

In New Mexico we often view the state as a rural place. In truth, much of it is. But it is fairly safe to say that about half of the state population now lives in an urban environment. This is challenging because of the traditional New Mexican cultures are tied to land.

The work of maintaining and supporting traditional land uses and healthy urban development in balance will require vision, leadership, and dedication. Urban health is best approached by dealing with a regional perspective rather than a city only view. Food, water, clean air, housing, jobs, and so much more really benefit from the regional coordination.

Today is World Health Day, and the focus is urbanization. So even if you only have a few minutes reflect on our cities and health. Cities are great for bringing lots of interesting things together. They are also places for the development of great inequities. Take a minute and think about what you can do to improve your local environment or social conditions.

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