Racism and Public Health in Canada
PUBLIC HEALTH MATTERS
Racism is a significant determinant of health in Canada, disproportionately affecting the well-being of racialized communities, including Black, Indigenous, and other people of colour (BIPOC). Systemic racism results in poorer health outcomes, reduced access to healthcare services, and increased rates of chronic diseases within these communities. The federal government must take a leadership role in addressing racism as a public health issue to promote equity and improve the health outcomes for all Canadians.
A Higher Standard
Racism is a public health crisis that disproportionately affects Black, Indigenous, and other racialized communities in Canada. Studies have shown that racism contributes to poorer health outcomes, increased exposure to environmental hazards, and reduced access to quality healthcare services (Government of Canada, 2024).
Racialized communities experience higher rates of chronic diseases, such as diabetes and cardiovascular diseases, as well as higher levels of stress and mental health challenges due to systemic discrimination and social inequities.
It’s time for Canada to do better.
Why It Matters
Racialized communities are more likely to experience poverty, housing insecurity, and employment discrimination—factors that directly impact health outcomes. Indigenous Peoples in Canada have a life expectancy several years lower than non-Indigenous populations, and Black Canadians are at higher risk for hypertension and other chronic conditions (Public Health Agency of Canada, 2019).
The COVID-19 pandemic further exposed racial health inequities, with higher infection and mortality rates among Black and racialized populations due to frontline work exposure and systemic barriers in healthcare access (Statistics Canada, 2022).
The federal government must take action to eliminate racism in healthcare and beyond to create a more just and healthy society.
Policy Solutions for the Next Federal Government
- Develop a National Anti-Racism Health Strategy: Create and fund a comprehensive strategy focused on addressing racism in healthcare and improving health outcomes for racialized communities.
- Expand Data Collection on Race and Health: Invest in the collection and analysis of health data by race and ethnicity to better understand and address health disparities.
- Increase Funding for Culturally Competent Healthcare: Support healthcare initiatives that prioritize culturally appropriate care for racialized populations.
- Address the Social Determinants of Health: Implement policies that improve housing, education, and employment opportunities for marginalized communities, as these factors directly impact health.
- Support Mental Health Services for Racialized Communities: Provide federal funding for mental health programs designed specifically for racialized populations, with a focus on addressing the mental health impacts of racism.
Questions for the Candidates
- Will your party commit to recognizing racism as a public health crisis and implementing a national anti-racism strategy?
- How will your party address racial disparities in healthcare access and outcomes?
- What policies will your party introduce to improve race-based health data collection and reporting?
Resources
Government of Canada. Social determinants of health and health inequalities
Public Health Agency of Canada. Addressing Stigma: Towards a More Inclusive Health System
Statistics Canada. COVID-19 and Racial Health Inequities