Institutional and Systemic Racism
Challenging Institutional and Systemic Racism
Frederick County, MD enjoys one of the most culturally rich and diverse communities in the state. Over the last ten years, the population of multi-cultural new residents has boomed, adding to the already expansive history of minority representation in the county. Unfortunately, even with all of this growth, the legacy of unfair and unjust systems still looms large over many minorities, especially racialized members of our communities. Many non-white residents feel more comfortable traveling outside of the county to access culturally appropriate healthcare (CHNA Focus Groups Report, 2024).
What are the impacts of institutional and systemic racism?
Institutional and systemic racism are at the core of many of societal ills. Systems that have their roots in racism and white supremacy have been designed to exclude and ignore minorities for too long. This is evident in the inequitable health outcomes present today. (Frederick County Black Maternal Health Initiative, 2024)
What’s the good news?
The Coalition for a Healthier Frederick County has partnered with the Black Health Equity Coalition and to support the Black Maternal Health Initiative and the three Workgroups associated with their goals!
What can we do about institutional and systemic racism?
Decrease Risk Factors:
Equitable representation among providers and caregivers
Train medical providers to assess their own bias and prejudice
Increase Protective Factors:
Connect more black birthers with birth workers of color
Cultural/racial representation among providers
Wrap-around services to support social determinants of health
Subcommittee Goals
Training and Education Subcommittee: Expand anti-racism and anti-bias training among a wide range of medical providers, including all relevant care staff.
Workforce Development Subcommittee: Increase the number and diversity of birth workers in Frederick County and expand access to their services.
Support Subcommittee: Safeguard the leadership of the Community Advisory Board (CAB) and Community Health Improvement Plan (CHIP) committees in the implementation phase. Ensure active involvement in the monitoring of the CHIP, maintaining transparency throughout the process.
Meeting Minutes
Workgroup Leadership
Desiree Tucker
Black Health Equity Coalition
Women Solve, Founder & Executive Director
Nia Condrey
Subcommittee Lead
Purpose One Reality, Owner
Akiyahh Billups
Subcommittee Lead
Vital Business Solutions, CEO
Kia Brown Tisdale, M.D.
Subcommittee Lead
Johns Hopkins Community Health, Physician
Melissa Sines
Leadership Team
Colmena Consulting, Co-Founder
Jeanius Lab, LLC, Owner
Mari Lee
Leadership Team
Frederick County Human Relations Commission, Co-Chair
Staff Representative Coordinators
Malcolm Furgol
Executive Director
Coalition for a Healthier Frederick County
Marci Corea
Workgroup Coordinator
Coalition for a Healthier Frederick County
Institutional and Systemic Racism Workgroup Members
Join A Workgroup
Are you passionate about making a difference in Frederick County? Join one of our dedicated Workgroups to collaborate with like-minded individuals and drive meaningful change! If you’re interested in getting involved, please complete the form below and someone will be in touch.