Director's Message

"There is growing recognition across California and the country that systemic racism is a public health crisis that must be addressed. Last year, Contra Costa County declared racism a public health crisis and vowed to tackle the problem.

I am heartened that more agencies are joining this effort. On Monday, the County Behavioral Health Directors Association of California (CBHDA), County Welfare Directors Association of California (CWDA), County Health Executives Association of California (CHEAC), and California Association of Public Hospitals and Health Systems (CAPH) issued a joint statement, County Associations Statement on Racism as a Public Health Crisis, declaring racism a public health crisis.

To statement identified racism as social determinant of health that often results in early mortality. "Simply put, structural, systemic racism kills," the statement said.

These organizations have pledged to work with county governments to address systemic racism at all levels. We welcome their help to this important cause at this critical time."

• Board of Supervisors Resolution
• Video from Nov. 10, 2020 Board meeting
• County Associations Statement on Racism as a Public Health Crisis

Anna M. Roth RN, MS, MPH
Health Director, Contra Costa County