The markers of inequality remain constant and racism plays a key role in society’s state of health or dysfunction. Some cities and counties in the U.S. have declared racism as public health crisis.
Cities such as Milwaukee, Pittsburgh, and Cleveland recognize that centuries of overt white nationalism and racism impacts mainly people of African descent creating conditions that are severely unhealthy and life-threatening.
“Racism, in other words, isn’t just someone using a racial slur. It’s also the poor schooling in predominantly black and brown neighborhoods, the racial wealth gap, housing discrimination, mass incarceration, police killings of unarmed black and brown people, higher infant mortality rates for people of color, and unequal access to health care. By declaring such racism a public health crisis, Milwaukee County officials are committing to put racial equity at the core of all city procedures, to advocate for policies that improve health in communities of color, and to train their employees on how racism impacts residents.”
In 2020, people are still working towards dismantling structural, systemic, and individual racism. The work of addressing racism is intersectional and stems from historical unjust business practices, and policies and laws impacting every aspect of our lives. We have an opportunity during the 2020 election to pay close attention to politicians upholding the status quo by working against justice for all. Restore justice! In 2020 it is critical that you exercise your vote and your voice so that our nation is healthy and equitable for all. Visit the UCC Racial Justice Page for more information on our commitment to ending racism.
Rev. Dr. Velda Love, Minister for Racial Justice, United Church of Christ
Office: (216) 736-3719
Other Resources:
States Participating in Gerrymandering in 2020
The Effect of Gentrification on Affordable Housing
The New Jim Crow Mass Incarceration in the Age of Colorblindness