Health educator Christie VanHorne presented “Bridging the Gap to Health Equity Through Individual and Community Action” on Thursday, November 14 at Mount Saint Mary College.
Health educator Christie VanHorne, president and founder of CVH Consulting, discussed how systemic racism, socioeconomic challenges, and historical neglect have shaped health disparities in marginalized communities during a November 14 talk at Mount Saint Mary College.
The Desmond Center for Community Engagement and Wellness, a Mount initiative, hosted the presentation, which was called “Bridging the Gap to Health Equity Through Individual and Community Action.” It was part of the Desmond Center’s ongoing Health Equity Talks series.
Historical factors like racism have led to generational mistrust, she said, which affects current events: “This is the impact of historical injustices, this breakdown of trust,” VanHone said. “Imagine that you’ve never gone to a doctor that trusts my lived experiences or they don’t prescribe me medication because of the color of my skin. Those are realities.”
VanHorne also discussed how individuals and communities can work together to remove such barriers and improve health outcomes.
The Desmond Center provides wellness and educational services for underserved individuals and families. The center offers accessible and equitable educational, health, and wellness services for community members and families in the local area.