We at the Blue Hills Community Health Alliance believe that the path to sustainable change for the health of our communities lies in multi-sector, collaborative, interdisciplinary efforts that address the roots of health disparities, not the symptoms.

We cannot do this work without acknowledging and speaking out against the systems, policies, and practices that disproportionately and unjustly impact Black and brown communities and other people of color. Centuries of structural racism and oppression have resulted in unequal access to the physical, social, and economic environments that impact health and wellbeing. Racism is a public health crisis that cannot be ignored.

We stand in solidarity with those who bear the brunt of structural racism. As a regional coalition, we vow to do better for our communities. Black Lives Matter, so we will listen, we will learn, and we will uplift the voices of our Black and brown neighbors and others who have been silenced. We pledge to seek ways to foster strong connections with members of the community and organizations that are working to dismantle racial inequities, and we encourage others to do the same. Intentional multi-sector collaboration is more important now than ever. We must all be committed to undoing racism and bringing about healthy, safe, and just communities. There is no other option.

Sincerely,

Ashley and Kym
CHNA 20 Staff