Promoting Policy Tools That Advance Health and Racial Equity
Racial and health equity are not just moral imperatives, they are good for our economy, good for our communities, and good for our health.
RWJF is committed to promoting and protecting inclusive policymaking and ballot measure access—two tools of democracy that are critical to achieving a world where health is not a privilege for some but a right for all.
How Does RWJF Support Inclusive Policymaking?
Inclusive policymaking repairs the long-standing impacts of racism and other forms of discrimination, making health systems more effective and just for everyone. For example, providing doula support during pregnancy as a means of improving Black maternal health leads to lower C-section rates and less postpartum anxiety and depression for all pregnant patients. Yet such policies and practices are being challenged in courts and legislatures across the country. Through legal advocacy, storytelling, and cross-sector partnerships, RWJF is supporting our partners in defending inclusive policymaking, and building thriving communities where good health is within reach for everyone, no matter their race, gender, or zip code.
How Does RWJF Support Ballot Measure Access?
Ballot measures have been used across states to improve the lives of families and communities. In the past five years alone, ballot measures have been used to expand Medicaid, increase minimum wage, protect abortion access, and institute paid leave. While voters are approving important health-focused policies, efforts to restrict ballot measure access are increasing. To protect access to this crucial tool for advancing health and wellbeing, RWJF is supporting and convening national and state partners working on non-lobbying advocacy, organizing, public education, litigation, and research.
From the Blog
Why We Are Defending Policy Tools That Advance Equity
Race-Conscious Policymaking: A Key Way Forward for Health Equity
How the Ballot Measure Process Strengthens Democracy and Health Equity
Partner Spotlight
Advancing racial and health equity policy together.
Lawyers’ Committee for Civil Rights Under Law
Uses legal advocacy to achieve racial justice, fighting inside and outside the courts to ensure that people of color have the voice, opportunity, and power to make the promises of our democracy real. They make long-lasting change through litigation, public policy, advocacy, and other strategies to the cause of civil rights. As part of their efforts to defend diversity, equity, and inclusion, they are challenging federal executive orders and providing nonprofits with pro bono legal support.
Arkansas Public Policy Panel
Works to achieve social and economic justice in Arkansas by organizing and supporting local community groups to advocate for equitable public policies. Through education, leadership development, and coalition building, the Panel helps everyday Arkansans become powerful advocates, ensuring their voices shape decisions that impact their lives and communities.
Partner Resources
Created by our grantee partners to advance racial and health equity
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