Reggie Jackson and Dr. Fran Kaplan will explore how racism affects public health and societal well-being in a program titled “Understanding Racism as a Public Health Threat.” The program will be held virtually via Zoom at 6:30 PM on Tuesday, November 9th, and registration is required. Please register at shorewoodlibrary.org.
In 2019, Milwaukee County became the first place in the United States to declare racism a public health crisis. It then began to establish a racial equity mindset, practices, and policies in its mission to turn Milwaukee from one of the unhealthiest counties in Wisconsin to the healthiest. In this presentation, Jackson and Kaplan will delve into how racism can be a social determinant of health while examining how successful public health screenings have made lives better by moving beyond long-standing but unhealthy cultural practices. They will also share examples of how concerned individuals can apply a public health approach to social and cultural problems.
Jackson is a regionally and nationally recognized speaker, researcher, and writer. His work helps institutions and individuals understand how our country’s racial hierarchy developed historically, its impact on our lives today, and how we can realize America’s promise for all citizens. Jackson also shares seldom-told stories and data about the experiences of African-Americans and other peoples of color past and present.
Kaplan has spent fifty-five years working against poverty and for social justice and peace locally, nationally, and internationally. She holds a Doctorate in Educational Leadership and a Master of Social Work degree. Her work as an adult educator, social worker and community organizer has taken her into various arenas, including farmworker rights, women’s healthcare, child protection, parenting education, and public history.
This program is free and open to the public. It is generously supported by funds from the Lange Bequest and co-sponsored by the Shorewood Senior Resource Center. More information, including the registration link, is available at shorewoodlibrary.org.
(Photo courtesy of Public Health Insider)