(RETF) Racial Equity Task Force
The Mile High Medical Society, a chapter of the National Medical Association, has declared racism a public health crisis and are imploring the State of Colorado to do the same. Racism, whether perpetuated in systems or by individuals, unequivocally leads to health inequities, especially in the Black community. This dangerous and immediate public health issue needs to be addressed at all levels of government, most importantly at the state level where resources and funding can have the most impact.
There is clear evidence that racism and negative health outcomes are tightly linked in the Black US population. This creates an environment that exacerbates current social determinants of health leading to the further degradation of an already poor health outcome. The COVID-19 pandemic has compounded these issues and the Black mortality rate has suffered more than any other population in Colorado.
the Governor’s declaration would be coupled with recommendations around the foundational work that needs to proceed it. This includes:
the formation of a cabinet-level Racial Equity Task Force (RETF) who will prioritize the advancement of equitable policies and initiatives addressing the dismantling of racism, ensuring accountability in state and county departments and who will have the resources necessary to do the work
focusing on the healthcare workforce and health outcome inequities including the State’s response to COVID-19
addressing social determinants of health around the topics of education, neighborhood environments, employment opportunities and economic stability, and legal considerations
The Mile High Medical Society urges the State of Colorado to take expeditious action to deconstruct and reengage the institutions that contribute to these significant health disparities and racism using a multi-disciplinary approach. Colorado’s Black population, who have been severely affected by the scourge of racism and all its negative byproducts, needs decisive and impactful assistance to reach the health equity attained by the rest of the State’s population or risk falling further behind.
