San Bernardino, California – As the summer of 2020 unfolded, the nation witnessed a stark reminder of its racial divisions. The COVID-19 pandemic swept across the country, disproportionately impacting people of color, while protests ignited by George Floyd’s tragic death at the hands of Minneapolis police officers erupted nationwide. In response to these events, the governing board of San Bernardino County, California, declared racism a public health crisis, signaling a commitment to addressing longstanding racial disparities.

Over the following years, efforts to combat systemic racism in California and beyond have been deliberate and methodical. Diane Alexander, assistant executive director of San Bernardino County, emphasized the importance of data collection and setting realistic expectations for progress. Despite the slow pace of change, Alexander remains hopeful that meaningful transformation is possible.

The fight against racism faced new challenges as backlash against diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives gained momentum. The declarations of racism as a public health crisis encountered opposition, underscoring the complexities of addressing deep-seated societal inequalities. Public health lawyer Dawn Hunter emphasized the necessity of steady progress in enacting substantial policy changes to address these disparities.

The impact of centuries of racist policies continues to shape disparities in health outcomes for minority communities, as highlighted by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Racial and ethnic minority groups experience lower life expectancies and higher rates of various health conditions, underscoring the urgent need to address systemic inequalities.

The declarations recognizing racism as a public health crisis have spurred action in over 300 local and state jurisdictions across the country. These efforts vary in their scope and commitments, with some focusing on data collection and accountability while others prioritize community engagement and program development. In Minneapolis, the declaration led to efforts to ensure equitable mental health access and address the lasting trauma inflicted on minority communities by gun violence.

As communities grapple with the challenges of confronting racism as a public health crisis, leadership changes and controversies have marked the journey. Some locales have rescinded declarations, while others have faced opposition due to the polarizing nature of the issue. Despite these obstacles, the work towards racial equity continues, with ongoing efforts to address systemic racism in various sectors.

Looking ahead, experts emphasize the need for more legislative action at the federal level to address racial disparities in public health. Democratic lawmakers have reintroduced resolutions declaring racism a public health crisis, signaling a commitment to broader structural changes. The ultimate goal remains the elimination of racism and the disparities it perpetuates, paving the way for a more equitable and inclusive society for future generations.