Solving Health Care
You know how the Republicans are trying to minimize health care? Health Care Solutions for Utahns 2017, an annual conference of Utah Health Policy Project, can help you navigate the potholes. You'll hear about substance use disorder, homelessness, immigration and criminal justice, along with a panel on Utah's major health challenges. Sen. Brian Shiozawa, a Republican who signed on to the Healthcare Ballot Initiative, is speaking about the push to expand Medicaid. A panel also debates the importance of a single-payer system to bring about universal health coverage. Everyone has questions. Some think they have the answers. Come and decide for yourself. Utah Cultural Celebration Center, 1355 W. 3100 South, West Valley, 801-433-2299, Thursday, Dec. 7, 9:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m., $30, conta.cc/2BAXc4e
Immigrant Justice Rundraiser
"If there ever was a time to support immigrants and immigrant justice in Utah, that time is now." That's the message from the Enriching Utah Coalition, raising money for an emergency fund and hotline for immigrants being squeezed by the system and the politics around it. At Keep Families Together: Celebrate & Fundraise for Immigrant Lives, tapas, music and dancing add to an atmosphere of support. Funds collected aid families in extreme need of food, shelter, clothing and more, as well as provide financial assistance for legal representation, and support hotline services to assess their needs and connect them with appropriate resources. Frida Bistro, 545 W. 700 South, Friday, Dec. 8, 5-7 p.m., $20-$50, bit.ly/2j69pqe
Gun Violence Vigil
It seems like after every mass shooting, the solution is "thoughts and prayers." You can participate in a prayerful candlelight 2017 Vigil to #EndGunViolence that also seeks concrete actions to stem the bloody tide of deaths. The gathering remembers the half million Americans killed or injured by guns in the five years since the Sandy Hook Elementary School massacre. And it should send a message to the politicians and gun lobbyists who fight against reasonable gun control. All Saints Episcopal Church, 1710 Foothill Drive, 801-581-0380, Sunday, Dec. 10, 7 p.m., free, bit.ly/2zDIDLU