Forty years ago, the U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services released a comprehensive report documenting the negative outcomes attributed to health disparities among racialized minorities (1). The report set off a cascade of policies, initiatives, and programs aimed at understanding the social determinants of health and eliminating health disparities, thereby paving the way for adoption of language and practices to bolster health equity in all sectors of public health, including health communication.  

​Yet, in merely months, we have witnessed swift and disturbing moves at federal, state, and organizational levels to end the decades-long progress that public health practitioners in the U.S. have achieved

It’s Wednesday, August 6th. Evening is descending on the home base of New City Neighbors, the youth development organization I lead in northeast Grand Rapids. Residents of our neighborhood join the youth in our summer program for an interactive panel discussion with local community leaders. The organization’s urban farm and farmhouse provide the ambiance for our guests, including the student-prepared visuals related to the asset mapping of our Creston neighborhood that are on display. With temperatures reaching past eighty degrees Fahrenheit, nearly fifty people are gathered outdoors in the warmth of the fading sunlight to listen to the experiences of the panelists. The theme for the evening is Cultivating Community. 

A positive community can help young people find a sense of belonging, purpose, and meaningful relationships. As we continue to learn more about the role of technology and social media in the lives of youth, we're uncovering how these platforms can be harnessed to support growth rather than hinder it.

​Just a decade ago, the dominant narrative around digital spaces was centered on harm—bullying, mental health issues, and a loss of in-person connection. But with growing research and insight, a new perspective has emerged: digital platforms, when thoughtfully designed and moderated, can actively promote thriving and Positive Youth Development (PYD).

I’m standing on a triangular city block in the Creston neighborhood of Grand Rapids. The triangle is formed between the streets of Coit, Quimby and Plainfield Avenue. I’m accompanied by two adults, who are leading a conversation with five high school students. The block is small, and in comparison we must look like a serious afternoon crowd to those passing by. 

By Paige Hammond and Renata Schiavo ​

 "Life or death for a young child too often depends on whether he is born in a country where vaccines are available or not.” - Nelson Mandela

Vaccines are one of the greatest achievements of public health, and thanks to various public health heroes, the threats from many dangerous diseases have been minimized - and in some countries, fully eradicated - as a result of vaccination. Vaccines play an integral role in keeping us healthy and safe, yet we often take them for granted in countries like the United States where vaccination rates are high. 

It’s Black History Month! Health Equity Initiative celebrates the many Black individuals who have contributed to the advancement of health, racial, and social equity. The social justice movement continues, but the leadership, determination, and courage of social justice pioneers throughout history has paved the way and contributed to the knowledge, strength, and power of today’s leaders.

Join us in observing the 9th National Day of Racial Healing which takes place today (Jan 21st, 2024). Started by the W.K. Kellogg Foundation (WKFF) and its community partners, the National Day of Racial Healing encourages all  to have conversations about racial healing, racial equity and justice. This day emphasizes the importance of “speak[ing] openly and hear[ing] the truth about past wrongs and the negative impacts created by individual and systemic racism” (1). Health Equity Initiative has been a proud participant since the Day’s inception in 2017.

 "Of all the forms of inequality, injustice in health is the most shocking and the most inhuman..." - Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., March 25, 1966
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Dr. King's powerful words still resonate in today's health equity movement across issues that contribute to health, racial and social inequities. Many scholars and professionals have rightly pointed that this quote "makes clear his moral concern beyond health care alone", given Dr. King's "unfailing attention to poverty, racism, education, and housing - what we now often call social determinants of health". (1)