The Equity Matters Podcast

On today's episode, I open up about my journey from growing up in Detroit to becoming a dedicated advocate in public health, social work, and equity.I'll share how my upbringing in a vibrant yet challenging city shaped my perspectives and fueled my passion for creating inclusive and equitable communities. Discover the motivations behind my career path and why these fields are not just professional choices, but personal missions that drive my work every day.   Listen & Subscribe to Equity Matters Podcast: Apple Podcasts and YouTube  Follow us on Instagram Like us on Facebook Register for the Social Determinants of Health Summit Sign Up for the Equity Matters ListServ Check out our Free Resources on Gumroad Visit Dr. Bell's Website

On today's episode, I open up about my journey from growing up in Detroit to becoming a dedicated advocate in public health, social work, and equity.I'll share how my upbringing in a vibrant yet challenging city shaped my perspectives and fueled my passion for creating inclusive and equitable communities. Discover the motivations behind my career path and why these fields are not just professional choices, but personal missions that drive my work every day.   Listen & Subscribe to Equity Matters Podcast: Apple Podcasts and YouTube  Follow us on Instagram Like us on Facebook Register for the Social Determinants of Health Summit Sign Up for the Equity Matters ListServ Check out our Free Resources on Gumroad Visit Dr. Bell's Website

On today's episode, I open up about my journey from growing up in Detroit to becoming a dedicated advocate in public health, social work, and equity.I'll share how my upbringing in a vibrant yet challenging city shaped my perspectives and fueled my passion for creating inclusive and equitable communities. Discover the motivations behind my career path and why these fields are not just professional choices, but personal missions that drive my work every day.   Listen & Subscribe to Equity Matters Podcast: Apple Podcasts and YouTube  Follow us on Instagram Like us on Facebook Register for the Social Determinants of Health Summit Sign Up for the Equity Matters ListServ Check out our Free Resources on Gumroad Visit Dr. Bell's Website

On today's episode, we delve deep into the critical issue of educational disparities faced by Black boys. Join us as we unravel the complex web of perceptions that label them as defiant, leading to disproportionate rates of placement in special education programs and harsher discipline.  We also shed light on the alarming reality of a mental health crisis affecting Black boys beyond the classroom, and the profound impact it has on their academic outcomes. This episode aims to challenge stereotypes and reveal the systemic issues contributing to the educational struggles faced by Black boys. Together, we explore strategies to address these disparities, foster inclusivity, and create an educational environment that truly meets the needs of every student. Listen & Subscribe to Equity Matters Podcast: Apple Podcasts and YouTube  Follow us on Instagram Like us on Facebook Register for the Social Determinants of Health Summit Sign Up for the Equity Matters ListServ Check out our Free Resources on Gumroad Visit Dr. Bell's Website

On today's episode, we take a deep dive into the critical issue of Black maternal health. Through this deeply personal narrative, we shed light on the alarming disparities within the healthcare system, specifically affecting Black women during pregnancy and childbirth. As we explore this urgent issue, we'll discuss the systemic barriers and biases that continue to endanger the lives of Black mothers. We'll explore ways to support, advocate, and work towards a more equitable and inclusive healthcare system, ensuring that every mother receives the care and respect she deserves, regardless of her race or ethnicity. Listen & Subscribe to Equity Matters Podcast: Apple Podcasts and YouTube  Check out Chelena B. YouTube Follow us on Twitter & Instagram Like us on Facebook Sign Up for the Equity Matters ListServ Check out our Free Resources on Gumroad Visit Dr. Bell's Website

On today's episode we navigate the struggles of identity, representation, and the unsettling reality of opportunities disproportionately eluding creators of color. As online creators, our digital presence is not just about social media, but a manifestation of our creative selves, making the loss of access much more than a technical glitch. Drawing on my personal experiences and insights from the online creator community, we explore how digital spaces are not merely platforms, but mirrors reflecting our aspirations, expressions, and connections. The loss of these spaces due to factors beyond our control can have far-reaching implications on our self-identity and creative momentum. Join us as we challenge the norms, question the biases, and strive for a digital world that embraces the multifaceted creativity of all its inhabitants. Listen & Subscribe to Equity Matters Podcast: Apple Podcasts and YouTube  Follow us on Twitter & Instagram Like us on Facebook Sign Up for the Equity Matters ListServ Check out our Free Resources on Gumroad Visit Dr. Bell's Website

On today's episode we delve into the complex world of respectability politics and its profound impact on people of color who navigate unsafe spaces. Join us as we explore the stories of individuals who face the daunting challenge of balancing societal expectations with the preservation of their cultural identity. We shed light on the potential consequences of respectability politics and discuss strategies for empowerment, resilience, and fostering inclusive spaces. Whether you're Black and have experienced the impact of respectability politics or seeking a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by marginalized individuals, this podcast will spark critical reflection and inspire meaningful change. Join us as we navigate the nuances of respectability politics, advocate for inclusivity, and explore pathways to creating safer, more empowering spaces for everyone. Listen & Subscribe to Equity Matters Podcast: Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Podbean, Spotify, and YouTube  Follow us on Twitter & Instagram Like us on Facebook Sign Up for the Equity Matters ListServ Check out our Free Resources on Gumroad Visit Dr. Bell's Website

Welcome back to Equity Matters! We are thrilled to return after a brief hiatus, and in this highly anticipated episode, we delve deep into the broken promises that remain from the 2020 realization of racial inequities. Join us as we explore the progress made, the work left unfinished, and the steps available to catalyze change. We are calling upon our listeners to revisit these documents and pledges, reflecting on the promises made and the progress made since. By examining the gaps between rhetoric and action, we aim to shed light on the underlying causes of these shortcomings and challenge individuals to take a proactive stance against racial inequity. Don't miss this powerful return episode, available on all major podcast platforms. Join the conversation and let's make a difference together! Listen & Subscribe to Equity Matters Podcast: Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Podbean, Spotify, and YouTube  Follow us on Twitter & Instagram Like us on Facebook Sign Up for the Equity Matters ListServ Check out our Free Resources on Gumroad Visit Dr. Bell's Website

Social work is not typically the first profession you think of when it comes to podcasts. Yet, podcasts are an incredibly rich and valuable resource for educators, students, and the general public. We can harness our relationship-based training to enhance social media networking and have a powerful impact on those around us. Today we join the Hip Hop Social Worker, Christopher Scott, MSW to talk about this relationship between social work and podcasting, leveraging his platform for education and empowerment, and offering advice for someone who wants to pick up a microphone and record.   Keep in Touch with Christopher:   Follow Christopher on Instagram, Twitter and LinkedIn Check out the Sweet Side of Portland Visit the Hip Hop Social Worker website Subscribe to the Hip Hop Social Work Podcast   Listen & Subscribe to Equity Matters Podcast: Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Podbean, and Spotify  Follow us on Twitter & Instagram Like us on Facebook Sign Up for the Equity Matters ListServ Watch I Got Five on Equity Matters Podcast YouTube Take our Courses with the Cummings Graduate Institute Visit Dr. Bell's Website

The concept of “social innovation” has been the catalyst of change in nearly every aspect of daily life for more than a decade. It has been driven by the belief that if innovation can fix significant market-driven technological problems, then it can fix significant social problems as well. Today we join Heather Hiscox, MPH, CEO & Founder of Pause for Change, to discuss how we move beyond the status quo in program design, centering race in conversations and strategies for DEI, and how we offer more effective strategies for solving complex problems.   Keep in Touch with Heather: Follow Heather on Twitter: @HeatherHiscox1 Visit the Possibility Project website Visit the Pause for Change website.   Listen & Subscribe to Equity Matters Podcast: Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Podbean, and Spotify  Follow us on Twitter & Instagram Like us on Facebook Sign Up for the Equity Matters ListServ Watch I Got Five on Equity Matters Podcast YouTube Take our Courses with the Cummings Graduate Institute Visit Dr. Bell's Website

Mentally healthy children have a positive quality of life and can function well at home, in school, and in their communities. Factoring in risk for parental detainment or deportation, children are more likely to report depressive symptoms, negative mood, physical symptoms and negative self-esteem. Today we join Basiliso Moreno, former school social worker, to discuss some of the challenges children experience when family members are deported, effects on their health and wellbeing, and managing extreme stress and anxiety.    Keep in touch with Bas:   Basiliso's Instagram: @BasMrMSW Basiliso's Twitter: @SocialWorkRants Check out The Social Work Rants Podcast here.   Listen & Subscribe to Equity Matters Podcast: Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Podbean, and Spotify  Follow us on Twitter & Instagram Like us on Facebook Sign Up for the Equity Matters ListServ Watch I Got Five on Equity Matters Podcast YouTube Take our Courses with the Cummings Graduate Institute Visit Dr. Bell's Website

The positive connections between diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in the workplace and business results have been documented for years. But examining the business benefits of diverse representation without considering equity and inclusion provides a limited picture of DEI's true potential. Creating a fair and inclusive work environment where workers of all backgrounds can contribute and succeed is vital—even more so now that diversity is the reality of many workplaces. Today we join Dr. Herman Pryor, Self-Equity Coach at HIP Enterprise to discuss characteristics of effective DEI leadership, creating metrics for success and articulating the ROI of DEI.    Keep in touch with Dr. Pryor:   Dr. Herman Pryor Instagram: @Dr_HIP HIP Enterprise Instagram: @HIP_Enterprise_LLC HIP Enterprise Facebook: HIP Enterprise, LLC Visit Dr. Pryor's website here.   Listen & Subscribe to Equity Matters Podcast: Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Podbean, and Spotify  Follow us on Twitter & Instagram Like us on Facebook Sign Up for the Equity Matters ListServ Watch I Got Five on Equity Matters Podcast YouTube Take our Courses with the Cummings Graduate Institute Visit Dr. Bell's Website

Black Americans have been disproportionately affected by HIV/AIDS since the epidemic's beginning, and that disparity has deepened over time. Racism, discrimination, HIV stigma, and homophobia affect the overall health and well-being of African American gay and bisexual men. Today we join Dr. Darnell Motley, Sexual Health Researcher at the University of Chicago to discuss the history of HIV/AIDS and how it shows up in Black communities, the obstacles to accessing quality care, and some of the overlap between COVID–19 and HIV as it relates to response and inequity.   Keep in touch with Dr. Motley:   Darnell Motley, PhD Twitter: @DMotleyPhD   Listen & Subscribe to Equity Matters Podcast: Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Podbean, and Spotify  Follow us on Twitter & Instagram Like us on Facebook Sign Up for the Equity Matters ListServ Watch I Got Five on Equity Matters Podcast YouTube Take our Courses with the Cummings Graduate Institute Visit Dr. Bell's Website

Have you noticed performative allyship? Where someone makes a bare minimum display of their support for marginalized communities in an effort to show they are on their side? And once a tweet or two has been shared, it's back to business as usual. This form of empty advocacy is unproductive and disregards the need for sacrifice and work by privileged individuals. Today we join Déjà D. Rollins as she describes how performative allyship stifles progress and attempts to create real change.    Keep in touch with Déjà D. Rollins   Déjà D. Rollins Instagram:@_dejarollins Déjà D. Rollins LinkedIn: Déjà D. Rollins Déjà D. Rollins Twitter: @DRollins_ Watch Déjà D. Rollins' TEDTalk here.   Listen & Subscribe to Equity Matters Podcast: Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Podbean, and Spotify  Follow us on Twitter & Instagram Like us on Facebook Sign Up for the Equity Matters ListServ Watch I Got Five on Equity Matters Podcast YouTube Take our Courses with the Cummings Graduate Institute Visit Dr. Bell's Website

Exposure to abuse, neglect, discrimination, violence, and other adverse experiences increases a person's lifelong potential for serious health problems and engaging in high risk behaviors. As providers grow more aware of trauma's impact, they are realizing the value of trauma-informed approaches to care. Today we join Dr. Fanike Kiara Young to discuss the key ingredients necessary for establishing a trauma-informed culture, the impacts of trauma on maternal health inequities, and coping with trauma triggers.    Keep in touch with Dr. Fanike Kiara Young:   Dr. Fanike-Kiara Young Instagram: @DrFanike Dr. Fanike-Kiara Young's LinkedIn: Dr. Fanike-Kiara Young   Listen & Subscribe to Equity Matters Podcast: Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Podbean, and Spotify  Follow us on Twitter & Instagram Like us on Facebook Sign Up for the Equity Matters ListServ Watch I Got Five on Equity Matters Podcast YouTube Take our Courses with the Cummings Graduate Institute Visit Dr. Bell's Website

In order to heal, you must cross the line.   Listen & Subscribe to Equity Matters Podcast: Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Podbean, and Spotify  Follow us on Twitter & Instagram Like us on Facebook Sign Up for the Equity Matters ListServ Take our Courses with the Cummings Graduate Institute Watch I Got Five on Equity Matters Podcast YouTube Visit Dr. Bell's Website

WKKK News at 11 featuring A. Blackman.    Listen & Subscribe to Equity Matters Podcast: Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Podbean, and Spotify  Follow us on Twitter & Instagram Like us on Facebook Sign Up for the Equity Matters ListServ Take our Courses with the Cummings Graduate Institute Watch I Got Five on Equity Matters Podcast YouTube Visit Dr. Bell's Website

Join us for a celebration of life for our fallen friend.    Listen & Subscribe to Equity Matters Podcast: Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Podbean, and Spotify  Follow us on Twitter & Instagram Like us on Facebook Sign Up for the Equity Matters ListServ Take our Courses with the Cummings Graduate Institute Watch I Got Five on Equity Matters Podcast YouTube Visit Dr. Bell's Website

Have you experienced stereotype threat? You may be eligible for financial compensation.    Listen & Subscribe to Equity Matters Podcast: Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Podbean, and Spotify  Follow us on Twitter & Instagram Like us on Facebook Sign Up for the Equity Matters ListServ Take our Courses with the Cummings Graduate Institute Watch I Got Five on Equity Matters Podcast YouTube Visit Dr. Bell's Website

Welcome to I Got Five, hosted by Dr. James Bell III.   Listen & Subscribe to Equity Matters Podcast: Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Podbean, and Spotify  Follow us on Twitter & Instagram Like us on Facebook Sign Up for the Equity Matters ListServ Take our Courses with the Cummings Graduate Institute Watch I Got Five on Equity Matters Podcast YouTube Visit Dr. Bell's Website

All people who need care should be able to see their doctor without worrying about being mistreated, harassed, or denied service outright. Discrimination in health care settings endanger LGBTQ people's lives through delays or denials of medically necessary care. Today we join Hayden Dawes to discuss the consequences of implicit bias on LGBTQ health, finding the right mental health provider, and how we can grant ourselves permission to be our best selves.   Keep in touch with Hayden:   Hayden Dawes Instagram: @hcdawes  Hayden Dawes Twitter: @HCDawes Hayden's LinkedIn: Hayden Dawes, LCSW, LCAS Visit Hayden's website here.  Read An Invitation to White Therapists here.  Sign up for Hayden's monthly newsletter.    Listen & Subscribe to Equity Matters Podcast: Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Podbean, and Spotify  Follow us on Twitter & Instagram Like us on Facebook Sign Up for the Equity Matters ListServ Take our Courses with the Cummings Graduate Institute Visit Dr. Bell's Website

In every corner of sports, athletes have long been some of the most vocal and expressive leaders on the forefront of change in society. Perhaps in the last decade, athletes' contribution to consciousness-raising has reached a pinnacle. Today we join Ashton Henderson MA, MBA immediate past Director of Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion for the Detroit Pistons to discuss the distinct equality and inclusion challenges facing professional sports, the Good Ol Boy Network's pervasiveness, and how to create more inclusive spaces in the athletic arena.   Keep in touch with Ashton:   Ashton Henderson Instagram: @A_Henderson31 Ashton Henderson Twitter: @A_Henderson31 LinkedIn: Ashton Henderson: Ashton Henderson M.A., MBA   Listen & Subscribe to Equity Matters Podcast: Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Podbean, and Spotify  Follow us on Twitter & Instagram Like us on Facebook Sign Up for the Equity Matters ListServ Take our Courses with the Cummings Graduate Institute Visit Dr. Bell's Website

A Dream Deferred featuring Dr. Mecca Marsh Unfortunately college athletes are used to being stereotyped and defined by their identities as athletes. Professors, faculty, and peers tend to have certain prejudices regarding student athletes, and they are usually not positive. More importantly, they are usually inaccurate. Regardless of their truth, however, these perceptions impact the lives of student athletes every day. Today we join Dr. Mecca Marsh to discuss the challenges student athletes face, the impact of paying students, and the varying gender disparities that appear in revenue generating sports. Trigger Warning: Discussion of interpersonal violence 21:16 - 21:28 Keep in touch with Dr. Marsh: Dr. Mecca Marsh LinkedIn: Dr. Mecca Marsh Dr. Mecca Marsh Instagram: @Mmarsh_consulting Dr. Mecca Marsh Twitter: @MarshMecca Visit Dr. Marsh's website here.   Listen & Subscribe to Equity Matters Podcast: Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Podbean, and Spotify  Follow us on Twitter & Instagram Like us on Facebook Sign Up for the Equity Matters ListServ Take our Courses with the Cummings Graduate Institute Visit Dr. Bell's Website

The United States has a long history of using intelligence tests to support white supremacy and class stratification. Standardized tests first entered the public schools in the 1920s, pushed by eugenicists whose pseudoscience promoted the “natural superiority” of wealthy, white, U.S.-born males. High-stakes standardized tests have disguised class and race privilege as merit ever since. Today we join Dalbin Osorio, M.Ed, MSW, Managing Director of Public Affairs with the Montgomery County Education Association,  to discuss how the consistent use of test scores demonstrates first a mental ability gap, and the achievement gap is really built to maintain inequality, not an antidote to educational disparities.    Keep in Touch with Dalbin:   Dalbin Osorio Instagram: @DalbinOsorio  Dalbin Osorio Twitter: Da_Osorio Visit Dalbin's Website here.   Listen & Subscribe to Equity Matters Podcast: Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Podbean, and Spotify  Follow us on Twitter & Instagram Like us on Facebook Sign Up for the Equity Matters ListServ Take our Courses with the Cummings Graduate Institute Visit Dr. Bell's Website

We live in a world in which the many -isms are embedded into social and political structures. Higher education is no exception. Campuses across the country are using their Student Affairs divisions to fight the good fight, to ensure every member of their student body community has an equitable opportunity for success and belonging. Today we join Jasmine Lee, PhD, MSW,  Director of Inclusive Excellence/Initiatives for Identity, Inclusion, and Belonging for the University of Maryland Baltimore County to discuss how student affairs professionals serve as change agents, advocating for racial diversity within their campus and contributing to a community-based approach that expands dialogue to larger networks.   Keep in Touch with Dr. Lee   Jasmine Lee Instagram: @DrJasLee Jasmine Lee LinkedIn: Jasmine A. Lee, MSW, PhD Jasmine Lee Twitter: @DrJasLee Visit Jasmine Lee's Website here.   Listen & Subscribe to Equity Matters Podcast: Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Podbean, and Spotify  Follow us on Twitter & Instagram Like us on Facebook Sign Up for the Equity Matters ListServ Take our Courses with the Cummings Graduate Institute Visit Dr. Bell's Website

Building people power through community organizing and movement-building is a critical solution to the historical and current inequitable distribution of power and resources along lines of race and class. Social movements led by communities most impacted by injustice are perhaps the most effective drivers of change. And understanding that when we center justice and equity with communities that have been disproportionately impacted, all communities have the potential to benefit. Today we join Theo Pride, PhD Community Organizer with the Detroit People's Platform and Frank Romo, CEO at Romo GIS to discuss the role of power in organizing and the benefits of having a technology element to enhance your people campaigns.    Keep in Touch with our Speakers:   Theo Pride LinkedIn: Theo Pride Visit the Detroit People's Platform Website Frank Romo's LinkedIn: Frank Romo Frank Romo's Twitter @Romo_GIS Visit the RomoGIS Website   Listen & Subscribe to Equity Matters Podcast: Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Podbean, and Spotify  Follow us on Twitter & Instagram Like us on Facebook Sign Up for the Equity Matters ListServ Take our Courses with the Cummings Graduate Institute Visit Dr. Bell's Website

Photography crosses cultural and linguistic barriers, and is suitable for all abilities. It can describe realities, communicate perspectives, and raise awareness of social and global issues. PhotoVoice is a powerful tool that can be used to build a world in which everybody has the opportunity to represent themselves and tell their own story. Today we join Laura Lorenz, PhD, Co-Founder of Photovoice Worldwide to discuss how she has used this participatory research method to show stories, share power, and change lives.   Keep in Touch with Dr. Lorenz:   Visit the Photovoice Worldwide Website Photovoice Worldwide Instagram: @Photovoiceworldwide Photovoice Worldwide Twitter: @PhotovoiceW   Listen & Subscribe to Equity Matters Podcast: Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Podbean, and Spotify  Follow us on Twitter & Instagram Like us on Facebook Sign Up for the Equity Matters ListServ Take our Courses with the Cummings Graduate Institute Visit Dr. Bell's Website

The “war on drugs” launched a global campaign to increase federal drug control agencies in order to reduce production, distribution, and consumption of illegal drugs. Fast forward nearly 50 years, this campaign still has lingering effects today - the U.S. prison population skyrocketed, and Black and Latino communities were disproportionately impacted by drug arrests and racial profiling. And while some states have legalized marijuana, there are still barriers to equity participating in the growing business. Today, we join Jerome Crawford Esq, Director of Legal Operations and Social Equity at Pleasantrees to discuss the history of marijuana prohibition, the tools available to advance equity, and other solutions to increase engagement in the marijuana industry.   Keep in Touch with Jerome:   Jerome Crawford's Instagram: @Jcrawford_Esq Pleasantrees Instagram: @WeArePleasantrees Pleasantrees Website    Listen & Subscribe to Equity Matters Podcast: Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Podbean, and Spotify  Follow us on Twitter & Instagram Like us on Facebook Subscribe to the Equity Matters E-Zine Take our Courses with the Cummings Graduate Institute Visit Dr. Bell's Website

In the context of employment, social capital can be seen as a positive asset for those who are seeking to find work or change jobs within the market. It can also be considered in terms of creating opportunities for career progression and job retention. Though commonly identified as a positive asset, social capital can also be seen as a disadvantage for marginalized groups. Today, we join Dr. Gina Merritt, to discuss her social capital platform that has been used to connect people in low-income communities with jobs, the impacts of COVID-19 on unemployment and how we go about eliminating inequities in employment opportunities.    Dr. Gina Merritt's Twitter: @GinaMerritt17  Project Community Capital's Website Project Community Capital Twitter: @ProjComCapital Project Community CapitalInstagram: @ProjectCommunityCapital   Listen & Subscribe to Equity Matters Podcast: Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Podbean, and Spotify  Follow us on Twitter & Instagram Like us on Facebook Subscribe to the Equity Matters E-Zine Take our Courses with the Cummings Graduate Institute Join the Brothas in Social Work Collective for How to Use the Digital Space to Amplify Your Voice in Social Work Virtual Workshop Visit Dr. Bell's Website

Successful career development requires much more than technical and job-related skills. Mentors can help professionals develop additional competencies and build key relationships. Research reveals that having a designated person to talk to, share concerns with and even vent to is extremely beneficial—it helps relieve stress, gain a clear, new perspective and make more informed decisions. Today, we join Lakeya Cherry, DSW, Antoine Lovell, and Haileigh Nelson to discuss the Network for Social Work Management's Policy Fellow Program, how it was rooted in developing the next generation of policy leaders and the benefits of mentorship in navigating their career lifecycle.   Keep in Touch with our speakers:   Dr. Cherry's Twitter: @Lakeya_Cherry  Dr. Cherry's Instagram: @LakeyaCherry  Dr. Cherry's LinkedIn: Lakeya Cherry, DSW, MSSW, ACC Visit Dr. Lakeya Cherry's website here. Antoine's Twitter: @Antoine_Lovell Haileigh's Instagram: @Hailssss_Jay Haileigh's LinkedIn: Haileigh Nelson   Listen & Subscribe to Equity Matters Podcast: Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Podbean, and Spotify  Follow us on Twitter & Instagram Like us on Facebook Subscribe to the Equity Matters E-Zine Take our Courses with the Cummings Graduate Institute Visit Dr. Bell's Website

Compared to affluent white communities, lower-income communities and communities of color are missing out on the advantages urban greenery provides.Negative environmental factors can compound social and economic conditions and lead to higher levels of chronic health problems such as asthma, diabetes, and hypertension for minorities and low-income communities. Today, we join Lacee Satcher, PhD to discuss the relationship between racism, capitalism, and the environment and how looking at this problem with a Black feminist lens can produce more equitable solutions.   Follow Dr. Satcher on Instagram & Twitter.  Visit Dr. Satcher's website.    Listen & Subscribe to Equity Matters Podcast: Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Podbean, and Spotify  Follow us on Twitter & Instagram Like us on Facebook Subscribe to the Equity Matters E-Zine Take our Courses with the Cummings Graduate Institute Visit Dr. Bell's Website

There is one number that may determine how healthy you are and how long you will live. It's your address. In communities with parks and playgrounds, grocery stores, and other assets, you are more likely to thrive. And where those things are missing, the opposite is true. Today we join Desiree D. Powell, MCRP, Urban Planner and Designer to discuss the relationship between healthy places and healthy people, how environments are designed, and how we can be better anti-racist planners. Desiree's Instagram: @TheDee_P Desiree's Twitter: @DRTBSPlanning Visit Desiree's website Do Right By the Streets here.    Listen & Subscribe to Equity Matters Podcast: Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Podbean, and Spotify  Follow us on Twitter & Instagram Like us on Facebook Subscribe to the Equity Matters E-Zine  

Far too often, Black girls are described as “troubling” or “disobedient” yet having isolated occurrences. When you review the existing data, you notice the trends that in some U.S. public schools, Blackgirls are six times more likely to face suspension, three times more likely to be restrained, twice as likely to endure corporal punishment, and three times more likely to experience law enforcement referrals than white girls. Today we join Dr. Ijeoma Opara and Marline Francois-Madden to discuss these disparities, how Black girls are frequently treated as adults, and how we can best support Black girls inside and outside of the classroom.   Today, we join Dr. Ijeoma Opara and Marline Francois-Madden,    Keep in touch with our speakers:   Marline's Instagram:@MarlineFrancois Marline's Twitter:@MarlineFracois Visit Marline's website here and purchase the State of Black Girls here. Dr. Opara's Instagram:@Dr.Ijeoma.Opara Dr. Opara's Twitter:@IjeomaOparaPHD Visit Dr. Opara's website here.   Listen & Subscribe to Equity Matters Podcast: Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Podbean, and Spotify  Follow us on Twitter & Instagram Like us on Facebook Subscribe to the Equity Matters E-Zine

We have learned the architecture of racism in the social work profession is embedded in practice, research, and education. As practitioners, we must deepen our awareness and then recognize our responsibility to disrupt the growth of racist ideas. Today, we join Josh McNeil, Doctoral Student at the University of Alabama, historian, and co-host of the Melanated Social Work Podcast to discuss his path for social work education, his process for unlearning, and how we should all seek out truth through curiosity.    Keep in touch with Josh McNeil: Instagram: MelanatedSocialWork Listen to Josh on the Melanated Social Work Podcast here.    Listen & Subscribe to Equity Matters Podcast: Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Podbean, and Spotify  Follow us on Twitter & Instagram Like us on Facebook Subscribe to the Equity Matters E-Zine

The primary aim of social work is eliminating social inequalities by advocating for racial, social, and economic justice for individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities. In many ways, white supremacy has shaped how many social workers navigate the system, what to expect, and what they believe is possible. Today, we join the Dope Black Social Worker AKA Kim Young, LCSW to discuss the consequences of white supremacy in social work, how she navigates professionalism standards, and her goals for social work retirement.    Keep in touch with Kim Young: Instagram: DopeBlack_SocialWorker Twitter: DopeBlack_Slwkr Visit Kim's website here: Dope Black Social Worker   Listen & Subscribe to Equity Matters Podcast: Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Podbean, and Spotify  Follow us on Twitter & Instagram Like us on Facebook Subscribe to the Equity Matters E-Zine

The LGBTQ community's rate of addiction is concerning, as are the various challenges and obstacles these individuals face on a daily basis that can contribute to a substance abuse problem. As they cope with stigma, harassment and even rejection by their families, LGBTQ folks are more likely than their non-LGBTQ+ peers to abuse drugs and alcohol. Today, we join Dr. Carl Highshaw, Chief Executive Officer of the AMAAD Institute to discuss what he knows about substance abuse in his community and recommendations to keep LGBTQ+ people safe.   Keep in touch with Dr. Highshaw and the AMAAD Institute Instagram:@Amaad_Institute E-mail: Carl@AMAAD.org    Listen & Subscribe to Equity Matters Podcast: Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Podbean, and Spotify  Follow us on Twitter & Instagram Like us on Facebook Subscribe to the Equity Matters E-Zine Register for the Equity Matters Social Justice Academy

More and more, studies reveal that people want to feel represented in the media they consume - and it's up to us to respect and celebrate our consumer's identities. When the existence of different identities, skin tones, body shapes and abilities is not taken into account, that is an act of the erasure of that community. This is why representation matters.Today, we join Michae and Quintell Allen, owners of GhostReaders and Umbrella Stock to discuss diversity in the photography field, using the power of imagery and voice to promote diversity, and what inclusion means in this work.    Keep in touch with Michae & Quintell:   Twitter: @ASharpPhoto Instagram: @ASharpPhoto Visit their stock photo site website here: Umbrella Stock   Listen & Subscribe to Equity Matters Podcast: Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Podbean, and Spotify  Follow us on Twitter & Instagram Like us on Facebook Subscribe to the Equity Matters E-Zine

Financial literacy describes a person's ability to comprehend and use financial skills for things like budgeting, investing, and personal finance. Unfortunately, the relationship between income and physical health demonstrates that financial health is an important social determinant that has a vast array of implications. Today we join Nicole Lewis, LCSW to discuss how she includes financial literacy as part of her private practice, some of the ways we have inherited our perception of money, and navigating the reimbursement process in private practice. Keep in touch with Nicole Twitter: @LeRemedyy Visit Her Private Practice Website here: Legacy Wellness Services    Listen & Subscribe to Equity Matters Podcast: Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Podbean, and Spotify  Follow us on Twitter & Instagram Like us on Facebook Subscribe to the Equity Matters E-Zine

We've all heard it before - young children are ‘too young' to understand race, racism and discrimination or you don't want to ‘put ideas in their heads. Racism in early childhood is real and it has concrete life implications which affect children disproportionately, depending on their social, political, cultural, economic, geographical and other positionings. Today, we join Marquita LaGarde, LCSW to discuss strategies for talking to children about race and racism, share resources on the conversation, and how to go about refilling your cup using mindfulness.    Keep in touch with Marquita: Twitter: Instagram:@Blkmhc LinkedIn: Marquita LaGarde   Listen & Subscribe to Equity Matters Podcast: Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Podbean, and Spotify  Follow us on Twitter & Instagram Like us on Facebook Subscribe to the Equity Matters E-Zine Register for the Equity Matters Social Justice Academy

The horror genre has a long-standing history of critiquing social norms, asking us to find the alternative, deeper meanings beyond the surface plotlines. This quality makes horror films one of the most powerful, and highly underrated, tools for social commentary. Today, we join fellow horror enthusiast Patrick Harris to share our appreciation for the genre, what it means to be Black in horror and how horror films are perfect for attacking white supremacy.   And if you are wondering what the tattoo is… it's Michael Myers.    Keep in touch with Patrick: Twitter: @PresidentPat Instagram: @PresidentPat   Listen & Subscribe to Equity Matters Podcast: Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Podbean, and Spotify  Follow us on Twitter & Instagram Like us on Facebook Subscribe to the Equity Matters E-Zine Register for the Equity Matters Social Justice Academy

People of color and all those whose lives have been marginalized by those in power experience life differently from those whose lives have not been devalued. They experience overt racism and bigotry far too often, which leads to a mental health burden that is deeper than what others may face. Today, we join Lauren Reliford, MSW, Political Director at Sojourners to discuss the link between racism and mental health, how cultural identity can be a protective factor and how we all should find support from family, friends and community.   Keep in touch with Lauren:   Twitter:@MYMStrategies LinkedIn: Lauren Reliford, MSW Social Work Policy and the Dignity of Life   Listen & Subscribe to Equity Matters Podcast: Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Podbean, and Spotify  Follow us on Twitter & Instagram Like us on Facebook Subscribe to the Equity Matters E-Zine Register for the Equity Matters Social Justice Academy 

Too often, data is collected and presented in a way that perupates disparity and deficit. By decolonizing data, indigenous communities determine the information they want to gather, think through why they are gathering it, and know who is interpreting the data and if the interpretation is being done in a way that serves the community. Today we join Autumn Asher BlackDeer, MSW, Decolonial Scholar to discuss how data is typically communicated through a deficit-based framework, how to add a cultural lens to the work and how data can be used to elevate the stories of those it is supposed to serve.   Keep in touch with Autumn:   Twitter:@AsherBlackDeer Website: Autumn Asher BlackDeer   Listen & Subscribe to Equity Matters Podcast: Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Podbean, and Spotify  Follow us on Twitter & Instagram Like us on Facebook Subscribe to the Equity Matters E-Zine

Culture makes us who we are. In doing project evaluation, it is also important to consider cultural context in which the project operates and be responsive to it by fully describing and explaining the context of the program or project being evaluated. Today, we join LaShaune Johnson, PhD, Assistant Director with Creighton University at Highlander to discuss how to be responsive to the needs and perspective of communities, recognize the need to address power dynamics and how researchers can move beyond inquiry to pursue progressive social change.    Email: LaShauneJohnson@creighton.edu  To learn more about the Center for Culturally Responsive Evaluation & Assessment, please visit their website here. To learn more about the Michigan Public Health Institute, please visit their website here.   Listen & Subscribe to Equity Matters Podcast: Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Podbean, and Spotify  Follow us on Twitter & Instagram Like us on Facebook Subscribe to the Equity Matters E-Zine Register for the Equity Matters Social Justice Academy

Although there is no commonly agreed upon definition for community engagement, at its heart community engagement means mutual decision making through collaboration. People, organizations, and government working collaboratively to create, realize and sustain visions for their community's future. Today, we join Jodi Cunningham, PhD, Director of Health and Housing at the Community Builders, Inc. to discuss how she deepens relationships with community, promotes the idea of intentional authentic interactions and uses her power to influence decision making with community voice at the center.   Instagram: @Dr.Jodicunningham  LinkedIn: Jodi Cunnigham, PhD   To learn more about Avondale Children Thrive, visit the BUILD Health Challenge website here. Avondale Children Thrive was featured on PBS NewsHour. The video can be found here.   Listen & Subscribe to Equity Matters Podcast: Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Podbean, and Spotify  Follow us on Twitter & Instagram Like us on Facebook Subscribe to the Equity Matters E-Zine Register for the Equity Matters Social Justice Academy

For far too long, communities of color and low-income communities have borne the brunt and burden of pollution to the air, water, and soil they rely on to live and raise their families. Research further goes to tell us that in low-income communities, homes averaged 25 to 60 percent more energy use per square foot. But why? Today we join Jamal J. Lewis, MPH, Director of Energy, Health, and Climate at the Green and Healthy Homes Initiative to discuss how he centers the voices of marginalized communities to make energy more accessible, affordable and clean for all communities.    Twitter: @JamalJLewis  LinkedIn: Jamal J. Lewis    To learn more about the Green & Healthy Homes Initiative, visit their website here.   Listen & Subscribe to Equity Matters Podcast: Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Podbean, and Spotify  Follow us on Twitter & Instagram Like us on Facebook Subscribe to the Equity Matters E-Zine Register for the Equity Matters Social Justice Academy

The environmental movement of the 1950s and 1960s raised awareness of the dangers posed by pollution and environmental degradation. Fast forward sixty years, we understand these environmental problems impact certain locations and people more than others - racial and ethnic minorities and the poor. Today, we join Juanita Hernández-Caudron, LCSW, Environmentalist and Social Justice advocate to discuss how history has shaped many of the environmental consequences we are experiencing now, and what we can do to reverse these inequitable trends.   Keep in touch with Juanita:   Twitter:@JoJoInColorado Learn more about Juanita's baking at The Great Mexican Baking Blog   Listen & Subscribe to Equity Matters Podcast: Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Podbean, and Spotify  Follow us on Twitter & Instagram Like us on Facebook Subscribe to the Equity Matters E-Zine

On July 29, 2020 we released “Long Time Coming” - the first episode of the Equity Matters. Fast forward 365 days, and we have completed 38 episodes, with countless guests and remarkable conversations. On today's special Instagram live episode,  Dr. James Bell III, host of the Equity Matters Podcast reflects on the good, the bad, and the ugly of podcasting, and what to expect in the coming year from Equity Matters.   Listen & Subscribe to Equity Matters Podcast: Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Podbean, and Spotify  Follow us on Twitter & Instagram Like us on Facebook Subscribe to the Equity Matters E-Zine

The Community of Practice: A Story to Tell w/ Shimon Cohen MSW, Dr. Marquitta Dorsey, and Dr. Jonathan Singer   There is a clear reason that storytelling is one of the oldest forms of communication. Stories create an unparalleled sense of connection between storyteller and listener. Fast forward to today, podcasting has emerged as a new vehicle to promote inclusion by valuing and unearthing real, honest, and personal experiences beyond our own. Today we join Dr. Marquitta Dorsey, Shimon Cohen, and Dr. Jonathan B. Singer to learn more on how their own experience podcasting has been used to inspire questions, speak authentically, and challenge their listeners to consider other pathways to social justice.   Keep in touch and connect with our speakers: Shimon Cohen's Twitter: @ShimonDCohen  Shimon Cohen's Podcast: Doin' The Work  Doin' The Work Podcast Instagram: Doin' The Work Dr. Marquitta Dorsey's Podcast: From Girls to Women Dr. Jonathan Singer's Twitter: @SocWorkPodcast Dr. Jonathan Singer's Podcast: The Social Work Podcast   Listen & Subscribe to Equity Matters Podcast: Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Podbean, and Spotify  Follow us on Twitter & Instagram Like us on Facebook Subscribe to the Equity Matters E-Zine

Decolonizing education goes beyond changing the content of curricula and it's not just about adding different voices. It begs us to question the production of knowledge and relearning the way we understand these perspectives. Who is the narrator? Who is being painted as the savior? Who is being othered? All of these questions should be considered as we empower students to embrace other knowledge systems and to not apologize for their own knowledge. Today we join Jonathan Wesley to talk about the process of decolonizing education as a means to decenter whiteness and other dominant identity groups, unpacking intersectionality and how religion has been a tool in his work.   LinkedIn: Jonathan Wesley Twitter: @SpeakWes Instagram: @JustJWesley Facebook: Jonathan Wesley   Listen & Subscribe to Equity Matters Podcast: Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Podbean, and Spotify  Follow us on Twitter & Instagram Like us on Facebook Subscribe to the Equity Matters E-Zine

With more incidents of police brutality against Black and brown Americans, and more colleges contending with their racist legacies by renaming campus buildings and removing statues that memorialize white supremacists, it's clear that colleges and universities must take a bold stance on the importance of becoming anti-racist institutions. But do students feel comfortable reporting racism? And how effective are the systems in place? Today we join Dr. Branden Elmore, Postdoctoral Associate at the University of Maryland, Center for Diversity and Inclusion in Higher Education to discuss how academic institutions can eradicate the culture of silence around racism, regularly assess student's sense of belonging and support their employees of color.   Keep in touch with Dr. Elmore   LinkedIn: Branden D. Elmore, Ph.D To view Dr. Elmore's Dissertation Abstract please click here.   Learn more about the University of Maryland, Center for Diversity and Inclusion in Higher Education:   Twitter:@UMDcdihe Website: Center for Diversity and Inclusion in Higher Education   Listen & Subscribe to Equity Matters Podcast: Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Podbean, and Spotify  Follow us on Twitter & Instagram Like us on Facebook Subscribe to the Equity Matters E-Zine

A wide range of disciplines address the historic and ongoing manifestations of racial inequality and injustice in the curriculum. Many educators are working to equip students to analyze, understand, and intervene systems of oppression in order to advance #equity. Despite the commitment of many to bring a critical analysis of racial injustice many still encounter challenges in teaching this content effectively. Today we join Dr. Frederick V. Engram Jr, Disruptor and Assistant Professor to discuss the way racism, white supremacy and white privilege display themselves in higher education and how an anti-racist lens can be part of the solution to uproot these ills. Keep in Touch with Dr. Engram:   Twitter: @VanCarlito2003 Instagram:@Dr.Engram19   Listen & Subscribe to Equity Matters Podcast: Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Podbean, and Spotify  Follow us on Twitter & Instagram Like us on Facebook Subscribe to the Equity Matters E-Zine