Greater Athens June 2022 | Page 21

Cory Barron , Malakoff
“ Black health and wellness is one of the most important problems that African Americans can face throughout the years . They suffer from emotional distress and traumas from witnessing violent deaths . Compared to other ethnic groups , Africans Americans are most likely at a higher risk of strokes , heart attacks , HIV / AIDS , diabetes , and asthma . People of color have bee treated differently in hospitals and health centers than other ethnic groups . Studies have shown that over time the consistency of racism not only impacts social stratification , but also affects their mental health and physical health . Healthcare equality among black women is not complete until they stop treating black women differently . African Americans should obtaining the same benefits as other ethnic groups so they can be able to have the same equalities as others .”
Blake Miller , Malakoff
“ The health of African Americans in our country seems to be not a main priority . It seems as if we put the health and safety of Africans Americans on the back burner . I feet like they need to be treated the same as everyone else . African Americans Wellness Projects mission is to improve the health of the African American community by serving as a megaphone for trusted information that enables and encourages African Americans to better navigate the healthcare system , advocate for themselves , and receive improved healthcare regardless of insurance or circumstances . I believe no matter what your ethnicity or economic classification ; everyone deserves the same type of healthcare It should not matter whether you have insurance or whether you are considered self pay . Disease is no respecter of persons . The same treatment should be given to all .”
Marcus Hornbuckle , Jr ., Malakoff
“ During Black History month in February , the theme was “ Black Health and Wellness ” which is the state or condition of being in good physical and mental health . African Americans are at a higher risk for heart disease , strokes , cancer , diabetes , etc ., that means African Americans experience healthcare disparities that result in limited access to healthcare . This health disparities impact such social groups such as poor , racial , and other groups who have persistently experience social disadvantage or discrimination experience worse health or greater health risk I pray that African Americans will have better healthcare so they can get checked for any health problems before it is to late . African Americans should get the healthcare they need in order for them to survive .”
Kyrah Chambers , Malakoff
“ Black Health and Wellness is an important issue that often goes unnoticed especially in Black women . Many health institutions would use and abuse African Americans without their knowledge and they would never get justice . Mental health in the black community is also a very big issue that we have yet to tackle as a whole . Black men are raised to be strong and hide their emotions because showing them is seen as weak which can be very damaging as they get older . As a community we all need to take a stand and come together to not only protect our people , but to also come together and stand against the issues that are presented in the African American community .”
Greater Athens Magazine | June 2022 | 19