Racism is a public health crisis
The killing of George Floyd and the disproportionate impact that COVID-19 has had on people of color are only the two latest examples of how structural racism can lead to devastating outcomes. Harvard Chan School stands together and is committed to helping fight this longstanding racism. The information and resources below highlight work from members of the Harvard Chan School community aimed at addressing racism and, ultimately, at helping shape a fairer, more just, and healthier world.
A Statement from Dean Michelle A. Williams
Sections:
In focus
Q&A: Turning the words ‘racism is a public health crisis’ into action
Q&A: COVID-19 pandemic highlights longstanding health inequities in U.S.
News
Improved future pandemic responses hinge on more government involvement, experts say
Increased government oversight of public health research, disease surveillance, and policy is critical to saving lives and promoting equity during future pandemics, according to Harvard Chan School faculty.
‘I’m going to fix everyone’
Despite his challenging start in rural Jamaica, James Frater, MPH ’24, overcame enormous obstacles to achieve his lifelong goal of becoming a doctor. He then helped others dream big.
Reckoning with racist history at New England Journal of Medicine
The New England Journal of Medicine has begun to take a hard look at its history of racism and complicity in slavery.
Senior physicians may care for fewer patients with Medicaid and from racial/ethnic minorities than junior physicians
Senior physicians may avoid seeing racial minorities and lower paying Medicaid-insured patients compared to junior physicians in the same practice, according to a new study led by Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health.
Maternity ward closures exacerbating health disparities
Obstetric units are closing at a growing number of hospitals across the U.S. As a result, many patients are being forced to travel farther to give birth and receive prenatal and postpartum care.
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Op-eds
To tobacco companies, Black lives don’t matter
The COVID-19 pandemic shows why we must—and how we can—end racial injustice in health
Racism is a deadly virus, too: A public health defense of these mass protests
Racism is killing black people. It’s sickening them, too.
Protest, demand change — but, please, put on your mask
Protecting hungry children during the fight for racial justice
Events
Voices in Leadership During Crises: Michelle Williams & Jeffery Sánchez
Mental Health and Wellness for Students of Color: Transitioning to College
