We all know and believe strongly that health care is a fundamental human right, right? Yet picture this: With all its advancements and breakthroughs, the medical space should be a space of healing and hope, and it's not. What if we told you that rooted within exists a harsh reality of inequities that disproportionately impacts Black people?
This probably doesn't come as a shock to you, now does it, John...
The journey to healthier communities demands that we address the underlying issues of white supremacy and systemic racism head-on.
That's why we're talking about Sickle Cell Awareness Month. Sickle cell disease (SCD) impacts 1 out of every 365 Black births and is more common in Black people in the U.S. compared to other ethnicities.
And get this: Black folks with sickle cell have less access to comprehensive team care than those with other genetic disorders.
Though warriors with sickle cell disease experience similar symptoms, Black people do not have the same experience dealing with this condition – and that's because of the racism and racial basis that continues to live in our healthcare system.
If we don't raise our voices on this issue, the health system will never be held accountable. There's never been a more crucial time to act -- sign the petition demanding additional resources from the health system for ALL Black people NOW >>
Sickle cell disease is the largest rare disease in the United States, and we all have a role to play in supporting sickle cell warriors in the Black community.
We need to continue to demand inclusion in medical and scientific advances, access to updated health information, pain prevention, and treatment options, as well as every other form of social equity in health care that has been denied to Black people for far too long.
We have a mandate to legislate in defense of Black lives -- because Black people deserve to thrive. To live life to the fullest and build communities that empower and enrich the lives of all Black people. Racism shouldn't be a part of what our communities have to face in a medical emergency.
It's on us to do all we can to get the resources that Black communities need so their health care is acknowledged and protected. Sign on NOW to show your unwavering support >>
In love and solidarity,
Black Lives Matter Global Network Foundation
