We
cannot overstate the effect that centuries of slavery and oppression
have had, and still have, on our mental and physical health, our
emotional wellbeing, our relationships, and our economic status.
Did
you know that African
Americans are 50% more likely than white people to have strokes?
African
Americans are dying disproportionately from cancer and other health
challenges including, among other things, cardiovascular problems,
stroke, diabetes, certain cancers, HIV/AIDS and Alzheimer's. For more about these and other issues, click here to download Why We Need to Heal.
Why
are so many of our people dying? Why are our people dying at such higher rates
than the rest of the population?
Is
this to do with poverty and discrimination? Is it to do with lack of
access to healthcare? Is it to do with racism within healthcare
provision?
Is
it due to diet and lifestyle?
As
suggested by this
video from the African American Cultural Center, is it a cultural thing – do we just accept
that we will be subject to certain health issues?
For
more about health issues and other challenges facing our communities
– and what we can do about them - click here to download Why We Need to Heal.
I
would love to know your opinion. Please leave your comments below.