February is a Busy Month for New Orleans Advocates

This American Heart Month, You're the Cure advocates in New Orleans have been busy raising awareness not only about heart disease in their community, but also the need for a Complete Streets policy that will ensure safe, connected streets for residents and visitors alike.

Heart Health Awareness

Everything is a celebration in New Orleans and American Heart Month is no exception! On February 7th, the City Council’s chamber filled with Mardi Gras royalty, community heroes, and the American Heart Association as the New Orleans City Council convened. It was no dispute that red was the dominant color in the crowd.

The Mayor's office and the New Orleans City Council presented the American Heart Association with a proclamation recognizing American Heart Month. AHA’s Brittany Gay and Coretta LaGarde, along with the city's health director, Dr. Jennifer Avengo, addressed the officials and audience with information about the importance of heart health and the mission of the AHA.

The AHA also demonstrated Hands-Only CPR, in which members excitedly engaged. Councilmember-at-large Jason Williams was the first volunteer to step up to learn this technique as AHA volunteers and staff hummed the famous chorus from the Bee Gees’ "Stayin’ Alive" - “ah, ha, ha, ha, stayin’ alive.” The day continued with the AHA and local college students from the Department of Physical Therapy at LSUHSC providing Hands-Only CPR demonstrations in the foyer of City Hall, where many employees, visitors, and even Mayor Latoya Cantrell participated.

Thank you to the You're the Cure advocates, community partners, Emergency Medical Service (EMS), LSUHSC, Bike Easy, and Girl Trek, who joined us in this informative day!

Safe Streets and Sidewalks

Just days prior to the American Heart Month proclamation celebration, GirlTrek, in collaboration with the American Heart Association and Bike Easy, hosted a Complete Streets Rally at Eastshore Playground on February 2nd. Elected officials and community leaders joined community members in a day of fun, entertainment, and grassroots activism. 

We were thrilled that New Orleans residents came out in full support of a Complete Streets policy that would improve street conditions and ensure future streets are built to share in every neighborhood. Everyone who came out to the Complete Streets Rally enjoyed food, music and games and ended the rally with a neighborhood walk. 

Thank you to everyone who attended and helped organize the event! Together, we raised awareness that a Complete Streets policy is important to New Orleans residents and is a great way to enhance health, provide economic opportunities and build the community.