TFAH’s Statement on Racism and Health and Well Being in America

Trust for America’s Health (TFAH) stands in solidarity with those opposing racism and seeking racial justice. The recent horrific deaths of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, and Ahmaud Arbery further expose the persistence of racism and racial violence in American society. We must remember the lives of so many Black people taken by such violence. We keep the families in our minds and hearts.

Systemic racism undermines equity and opportunity and is far-reaching – in health, education, economic opportunity, employment, housing, transportation, and criminal justice, only to name a few examples. The toll from racism on the lives and health of Black people and other people of color is vast.  It is seen in the impact of the disinvestment in and marginalization of communities of color, the unhealthy social, economic, and environmental conditions, and the lack of opportunities within community, work and school settings, which result in deaths at earlier ages and high rates of chronic and infectious diseases.  It is seen in the impact of racial violence as well as daily instances of prejudice and racial discrimination that result in adverse mental and physical health effects such as stress, trauma, and elevated blood pressure.  The recent cases of violence against Black people and the disproportionate impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on people of color have highlighted once again the importance of combating racism as a public health imperative.

At Trust for America’s Health, we envision a nation that values the health and well-being of all, where equity is foundational to policymaking at all levels of society.  Together with all justice-seeking people in America, we remain steadfast in advocating for policy solutions to achieve equity so that everyone has a fair and just opportunity for optimal health.