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:
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
News
Polls find shifting attitudes toward racism, health care in U.S. during pandemic
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Americans’ opinions on a variety of health and social issues have shifted, according to new research led by Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health. An analysis of 18 polls conducted during 2020 found…
Harvard Chan School joins effort to close racial wealth gap
Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health is partnering with leading organizations from across the business, nonprofit, philanthropy, and academic sectors on a new initiative aimed at combatting the 90% racial wealth gap between Black and white Americans.…
Getting to know … Onisha Etkins, PhD ’21
Onisha Etkins uses social epidemiology—and dance—to share nuanced stories about Black and Brown people’s lives that center their joys and desires.
Stress of racism can affect health across generations
For people of color, race-based stressors can take a heavy toll on health.
Opinion: States should move to decriminalize drug use
States across the U.S. should consider following the lead of Oregon, which recently passed a ballot initiative decriminalizing the personal possession of all drugs, according to Harvard Chan School's Mary Bassett.
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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.
Events
Voices in Leadership During Crises: Michelle Williams & Jeffery Sánchez
Mental Health and Wellness for Students of Color: Transitioning to College
