The New York State Department of Health marked Juneteenth with a statement from Commissioner Dr. James McDonald, emphasizing the ongoing need to address health disparities among Black New Yorkers and other communities of color.
“Juneteenth is a time for celebration, reflection and continued commitment to justice. While we commemorate the day in 1865 when enslaved people in Texas finally learned of their freedom, more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation, we must also recognize that the struggle for health equity continues.
“The New York State Department of Health reaffirms its commitment to advancing health equity and dismantling the systemic racism that has led to persistent disparities in health outcomes for Black New Yorkers and communities of color. These inequities, rooted in generations of injustice, remain evident in issues like maternal mortality, chronic diseases such as heart disease and diabetes and access to quality care.
“Although Juneteenth marks a historic milestone in our nation’s progress, it also reminds us of the work that still lies ahead. We must continue to acknowledge the structural barriers that continue to affect health outcomes.
“Under Governor Kathy Hochul’s leadership, the Department remains focused on removing those barriers. We are working to ensure every New Yorker, regardless of race or background, has access to quality care, resources and the opportunity to live a healthy and full life.
“On Juneteenth, we honor the resilience, strength and contributions of Black Americans. Let us continue to build a future where health equity is not only a goal, but a reality. We all have a responsibility to confront injustice and advocate for a healthier New York for all.”
The statement comes as public officials highlight persistent gaps in healthcare outcomes related to longstanding social inequities. The department’s focus includes addressing issues such as higher rates of maternal mortality among Black women compared with other groups, as well as disparities in chronic conditions like heart disease and diabetes.
Efforts under Governor Kathy Hochul’s administration aim at removing obstacles that prevent equal access to healthcare across different populations within New York State.
