Item:
Title
Resolution Declaring Racism a Public Health Crisis (10min)
Body
Date of BOCC Meeting: June 8, 2020
Request for Board Action:
Agenda Text
The Board is requested to approve the attached resolution entitled, Racism: A Public Health Crisis that has been developed in recognition of the national and local protests and riots that have resulted from the recent death of George Floyd by four Minneapolis Minnesota Police officers. The event has served as a spark to recognize the tireless work that must continue to address and reduce the pervasive racial inequities that continue to exist in our country.
Numerous articles point to the adverse impact of negative and deadly encounters between police and persons of color, most notably on young black men and the resultant permanent, negative impacts on their emotional and mental health. The goal is to bring our communities together to educate, train and develop new social policies that will be built on a foundation of racial equity to improve the lives of our communities of color. The Durham Committee on the Affairs of Black People has asked the Board of County Commissioners to join in this action.
Alignment with Strategic Plan: This item aligns with Goal 1: Community Empowerment and Enrichment and Goal 2: Health and Well-Being For All.
Resource Persons: Dr. Wanda Boone, Executive Director of Durham T.R.Y (Together for Resilient Youth); Kweli Rashied-Henry, Racial Equity Officer; Rod Jenkins, Public Health Director
County Manager’s Recommendation: The County Manager recommends that the Board approve the resolution and share it with the entire Durham community.
Signature
County Manager: ____________________________