The children most at risk of being exposed to lead are predominately black. Not only does the data tells us this, but decades of scholarship and experience tell us that generations of black and brown families have been systematically excluded from basic opportunities for safe and affordable housing, stable and meaningful employment, toxic-free and resource rich neighborhoods, rigorous education and other opportunities. We applaud Governor DeWine and Dr. Amy Acton for prioritizing reducing health disparities in the state of Ohio and highlighting lead poisoning and other challenges that disproportionately impact our most vulnerable children. The OLFKC submitted testimony to the for a hearing Tuesday, June 16, 2020, to shine a light on how lead poisoning is part of the social determinants of health that are especially harmful for our black children.
To contact the Ohio Minority Health Strike Force, please contact: MinorityHealth@odh.