A Message from Sung Poblete, PhD, RN, CEO of FARE, Calling Our Food Allergy Community to Action

Dear FARE Community,

I hear you. As a food allergy patient, clinician, and CEO of FARE, I am as frustrated as you are. Every week brings a new story of suffering caused by disregard or misunderstanding of this disease.

Currently, seventeen states are part of the Texas v. Becerra case, which contains language that could be used to undermine the fundamental protections of Section 504. Section 504, which is part of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, requires state and local governments to ensure that persons with disabilities have equal access to any programs, services, or activities receiving federal financial assistance. The Department of Education’s Office for Civil Rights lists allergy as an example of a hidden disability for the purpose of Section 504.

Please reach out to your Attorney Generals and Congressional members to let them know what Section 504 means to food allergy families. We have provided sample language for your email here.

Legislators need to hear from you directly—your voice, your story. We are united in our resolve, and mighty in our ability to shape the future.

When something is good for the food allergy community, it’s good for everyone.

We Are FARE,
Sung Poblete, PhD, RN
CEO of FARE

Sample Language for an Email to Your State Attorney General or Congress Member

Dear [Attorney General or Congress Member’s name],

Either I, or someone I love, is one of the more than 33 million individuals living in the United States with food allergy, which can cause life-threatening reactions. Food allergy is a disease, not a diet or a choice. 

Texas v. Becerra contains language that could be used to undermine Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. Section 504 ensures that people with food allergy can get the protections they need at school (whether K–12 college, or university) and in other settings, including healthcare facilities, that receive federal funding. People with food allergy deserve to have supportive, allergy-aware environments and safe, appropriate eating and food options.  

Please support Section 504 and its rules. Thank you. 

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