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Canadian Public Health Association

Health Equity for Black People and Other People of Colour

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PUBLIC HEALTH MATTERS

In Canada, Black communities and other people of colour face significant health disparities. These communities experience higher rates of chronic illnesses, mental health challenges, and limited access to healthcare services, largely due to systemic inequities and social determinants of health. The federal government must play a critical role in addressing these disparities to improve health outcomes and promote health equity for all Canadians.

A Higher Standard

Health disparities between Black people, other people of colour, and white Canadians are well-documented. Research has shown that racialized communities experience higher rates of chronic diseases, such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and hypertension, due to socio-economic disparities, environmental factors, and systemic barriers to healthcare (Government of Canada, 2020).

Additionally, Black people and Indigenous populations in Canada were disproportionately impacted by COVID-19, with higher infection and mortality rates due to increased exposure risks and barriers to accessing healthcare services (Olanlesi-Aliu, 2024).

It’s time for Canada to do better.

Why It Matters

Structural barriers in Canada’s healthcare system prevent many Black people and other people of colour from receiving the care they need. Studies indicate that racialized individuals report experiencing discrimination when seeking healthcare services, leading to poorer health outcomes (Canadian Institute for Health Information, 2022).

Mental health disparities are also significant, with Black Canadians and other racialized groups facing higher levels of stress, anxiety, and depression but having lower access to mental health services due to stigma, financial barriers, and culturally inappropriate care models (Mental Health Commission of Canada, 2021).

A federal commitment to dismantling systemic racism in healthcare is necessary to ensure that all people in Canada, regardless of race, have equal opportunities for good health.

Policy Solutions for the Next Federal Government

  1. National Health Equity Strategy: Develop a comprehensive strategy that addresses the root causes of health disparities among racialized communities and prioritizes equitable access to healthcare services.
  2. Funding for Culturally Competent Healthcare: Invest in training programs for healthcare providers that focus on cultural competence and anti-racism practices.
  3. Increase Mental Health Services for Racialized Communities: Allocate federal funding to expand mental health services that are accessible and specifically designed for Black people and people of colour.
  4. Tackle Social Determinants of Health: Implement policies that improve access to housing, education, and employment for racialized communities, as these factors significantly impact overall health.

Questions for the Candidates

  • How will your party address the systemic health disparities faced by Black and racialized communities?
  • Does your party support increased investment in culturally competent healthcare programs for Black people and other racialized communities?
  • Will your party commit to collecting and using race-based health data to address disparities in healthcare outcomes?
  • What steps will your party take to ensure equitable access to mental health services for racialized communities in Canada?

Resources