Patriotism and Public Health: We the People Vax

July 2025

By Sara Dillard

What could be more patriotic than protecting your fellow Americans? Throughout our nation’s history, safeguarding public health has been a cornerstone of national strength, and vaccinations have played a critical role in that effort.

In fact, the fight for American independence was strengthened by a bold public health decision. George Washington, understanding the devastating toll of smallpox, ordered the inoculation of every soldier in the Continental Army. This move helped ensure a healthy fighting force and laid a foundation for the future success of our country.

Today, we continue to champion the ideals of freedom and liberty, freedom from illness and the liberty to live and work in safe, healthy environments free of vaccination preventable diseases. However, in recent years, the rise of the anti-vaccination movement has co-opted the language of “medical freedom,” spreading misinformation and undermining decades of public health progress.

The consequences have been tragic. Communities have suffered outbreaks of diseases once thought eradicated, and preventable deaths have occurred — all under the banner of so-called freedom. 

It is time to reclaim “freedom”! Freedom means protection. Freedom means health. 

That is why We the People Vax was formed. We are a group of immunization coalitions and health organizations from across the nation united by a shared goal: to remind Americans that choosing vaccination is not just a personal decision, it is a patriotic one. 

Our campaigns emphasize that vaccinations do not just protect individuals; they safeguard our families, our communities, and those who serve on the front lines, from military personnel to health care workers. 

Through coordinated, easy-to-share social media campaigns, we deliver timely, impactful messages to educate and inspire. Using the hashtag #WeThePeopleVax, our movement has already reached over 1.8 million people and has been shared nearly 2,000 times across various platforms. 

With more than 41 member organizations across 29 states and five national partners, We the People Vax is growing every day—and we invite you to be part of this powerful movement.

Together, let’s protect each other. Let’s defend our freedom from preventable disease. Join us in making vaccination a symbol of true American patriotism. #WeThePeopleVax 

Learn more about the campaign at www.wethepeoplevax.org. Email info@wethepeoplevax.org with any questions. 

About the Author:

 Sara Dillard is the Communications Director for the Indiana Immunization Coalition. She has more than15 years of experience in brand messaging, content creation, and marketing, which she uses to promote public health initiatives through digital storytelling. In addition to directing communication efforts for the Coalition, Sara oversees digital media and campaigns for three national initiatives: We the People Vax, Project HPV Free, and Beware of B. In 2023, the Indiana Public Health Association awarded Sara the Communications and Media Award.