From words to action: Can local policies and declarations address racism as a public health issue?
Over the past few years, increasing incidences of police brutality and the global COVID-19 pandemic have renewed interest and attention for advancing health equity and justice. COVID-19 has been particularly harmful for already at-risk communities, and many local governments have responded by declaring racism a public health issue. We wanted to know: Have these declarations been followed up with meaningful action?
In partnership with the Praxis Project, BMSG will evaluate such declarations by assessing how they were received by local stakeholders, how they were covered by the media, and whether the declarations resulted in government action to dismantle inequities and promote health and well-being for all community members. As an extension of this work, BMSG is participating in a new collaborative dedicated to advancing anti-racism work. Learn more at https://herenow.org/.
Related resources
Championing public health amid legal and legislative threats: Framing and language recommendations
Talking about our recovery from COVID: How public health practitioners can emphasize equity
COVID-19: Addressing discrimination and racism: Local health department support guidance