Remarks as Prepared for Delivery by First Lady Jill Biden at a Visit to Capital High School Vaccination Clinic
Charleston, West Virginia
Thank you for that introduction, Christian. You’ve made your family and your school so proud today.
And, Bill and Pat, and the Garner family – we are so glad to have you here.
Jenn—ever since we first met through Save the Children, I’ve admired your infectious passion.
You and Mark Shriver, who is also here with us today, care so deeply about protecting children—and you both inspire everyone you meet to fight for those who are the most vulnerable. I know we’ve spent hours on Zooms trying to talk to the nation about the importance of early childhood education, and we’re going to keep moving forward.
Senator Manchin, you have been a champion for West Virginia and you’ve always found ways to bring people together.
Your integrity and commitment to this state is steadfast, and Joe and I are grateful for you and Gayle, and the friendship we’ve built over the years.
It was wonderful to see Cathy Justice earlier today. The work that Governor Justice is doing to support community college students is incredibly exciting.
Principal Bailey, thank you for welcoming us to Capital High School.
It’s wonderful to be here in West Virginia—the rolling farms that hide the horizon and the white watered rivers that cut through the landscapes, the goldenrod and ranunculus that run along the highways.
And it’s not just the landscape that makes this place so special—it’s the community and spirit of independence that has been woven into your state since its beginning.
I know you’ve shown that spirit in the last year—picking up groceries for your neighbor, or checking in on the church member who’s spending holidays alone, or volunteering at a food bank. This community found ways to come together even when you were apart.
Now, things are getting better every day. Vaccinated friends and family are able to take off their masks. Businesses are reopening.
We’re getting back those things we lost for so long: hugging the people we love, smiling at strangers.
And it’s because this state worked so hard to step up and get as many people vaccinated as possible.
Because when there’s something you can do to help the people in your life—to give back to your community—you don’t hesitate.
You show up. You take care of each other. You do your part.
Health and safety aren’t red issues or blue issues. They’re community issues. They’re “getting back to the lives we love” issues.
And that’s exactly what we’re going to do.
Because we have to—especially for our kids.
It’s tough to lose your summer when you’re a teenager.
The sleepovers and staying out long after sundown, pool parties and white water rafting and hiking with your friends, the chance to explore the world and visit new places.
As of yesterday, everyone 12 and over can now get the vaccine, making our gatherings with family and friends safer.
You know, the young people I meet inspire me so much.
They believe that they can make the world a better place—and they live that optimism with their actions.
Right now, getting vaccinated is the most powerful thing any of us can do— young or old—to strengthen our communities.
Now, there’s a fair amount of misinformation out there—and some of my friends have asked me whether the vaccine is safe. And the answer is yes!
The studies have shown: the vaccine is safe and effective—and it saves lives.
I got my shots—I promise, they didn’t even hurt much.
But if you have questions, then ask your doctor. Talk to your local pharmacist. Talk to a pediatrician that you trust.
All of you here have found a way to bring sunshine to each other through a dark year.
And now, the clouds are finally breaking. Spring feels more beautiful than ever and the best is still to come.
The community you’ve created and the strength you’ve given to each other are a light for all of us.
So, thank you for taking care of each other.
Let’s get to a safe and fun summer together!
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