The Center for Black Health & Equity’s mission is to facilitate programs and services to benefit communities and people of African descent. We operate with the understanding that eliminating health disparities for the most vulnerable populations creates systems that benefit our entire society. Our mission and understanding of this core principle of health equity is one that will not change.
In the months since this new administration took office, we have seen detrimental national and global effects on our ability to provide services, conduct outreach, and support the communities we serve. Additionally, access to critical data that informs our political strategies has been restricted or removed, weakening our capacity to advocate effectively. These challenges underscore the urgent need for policy protections, strategic adaptation, and reinforced community engagement to sustain progress across health policies.
We asked you about the impact of these orders on your organizations and communities in a 50-day survey, and the results revealed what we have all come to recognize: We can no longer trust the systems meant to mitigate harm to our communities, and the government is no longer in the business of contributing to a healthy and prosperous society.
Regardless of, and now because of, the current administration, health disparities aren’t going anywhere. Our work is more critical than ever, and The Center for Black Health & Equity will continue doing our work in support of and with the support of the community and other national organizations who with us have always been the backbone of progressing health equity.
This moment may feel like a setback, but it is also an opportunity. With federal support diminishing, local communities and leaders are stepping up to lead the way, driving innovative solutions and grassroots advocacy. By reinforcing our partnerships, building new collaborations and coalitions, and forming alliances to fill the crucial gaps left by the dismantling of federal support, we can reclaim the path forward for public health. We don’t have all of the answers, but we’ve navigated these waters before, and we will make it through. This is a time for resilience, strategic action, and collective empowerment to ensure that our communities remain protected and our progress continues.
