Melanistic Magazine - Vol. 11

FOR BY US: Health the B.E.A.R - Black Equity in Alberta Rainforest

Health inequity is rooted in systemic issues that disproportionately affect African, Caribbean, Black (ACB) communities (ex: economic disparities and barriers to justice, employment, civic leadership, academia, healthcare). In spite of some efforts, there remains significant gaps in addressing these issues. B.E.A.R is a holistic, socially innovative community initiative.

This research project aims to build a large network of people, organizations, and policy makers to understand root causes of ACB related health inequity, effects of anti-black racism on health equity, and guide sustainable solutions to address Black health inequity. The initiative also seeks to understand how existing resources and initiatives can be better aligned to effect positive change and close racial disparities in Alberta.

B.E.A.R’s focus includes:

• Black data governance,

• Justice for people living with HIV,

• Creating awareness and providing information on sexual health,

• Justice for Black youth as it relates to mental health and interacting health / justice systems navigation.

LEARN MORE:www.ribbonrouge.com/bear