Health Equity for Black Communities with Dr. Onye Nnorom

In this episode of the podcast, Brooke is joined by Dr. Onye Nnorom, president of the Black Physicians’ Association of Ontario and an experienced physician who helps people understand how factors of racism impact marginalized groups, especially in the context of health. Also known as “Dr. O” on her podcast “Race, Health, and Happiness,” the two discuss racialized communities’ experiences with the health system, vaccines, strategies to build trust, and optimism for the future. Supported with important real-world examples of systemic shortcomings and effective ways to increase trust within Black communities, the conversation explores COVID-19 through a much-needed racialized lens. Some specific topics include: Drivers behind low vaccine uptake rates within Black communities in Canada. The importance of lived experience and intergenerational wisdom. The history of Black communities being exploited by public health systems. The need for open discussions around vaccine distrust, rather than forcing uptake. Integrating cultural humility into all levels of the healthcare system. The three stages of vaccine rollout and how they’ve been experienced by Black communities in Canada. Barriers that prevent respect for, and acknowledgment of, racialized intergenerational wisdom from the dominant culture. Strategies to increase Black communities’ trust in the public health system. How to navigate difficult discussions on vaccine hesitancy.