Advocating for Health Equity and Ending Racial Discrimination

Dear Lakay Accès Santé community,
Juneteenth marks the emancipation of enslaved African Americans in the United States, serving as a poignant reminder of the enduring struggle for equality and justice. One hundred fifty-nine years after slavery was officially abolished in the U.S., its legacy still weighs heavily on Blacks and People of Color (BPOC). As we commemorate this victory and reflect on the current challenges at Lakay Accès Santé, we stand in solidarity with our community in advocating for social justice, health equity, and an end to racial discrimination.
At Lakay Accès Santé, we believe that everyone deserves access to equitable health and human services, regardless of race, ethnicity, or background. Health equity means ensuring that all individuals have a fair and just opportunity to attain their highest level of health. However, systemic racism and discrimination continue to create barriers to health and human services access, contributing to health disparities within our communities. This stark reality is one we are committed to addressing head-on.
Today, and every day, we reaffirm our commitment to:

• Promoting culturally competent services that respect and respond to the diverse backgrounds and experiences of every human being.

• Advocating for policies that promote health equity and address the social determinants of health.

• Partnering with community organizations to eliminate health disparities and improve health outcomes for all.

• Educating ourselves and our community about the impacts of racism on health and well-being.

Together, we can create a future where everyone, regardless of race, ethnicity, or immigration status, can live a healthy and fulfilling life. Let us use this Juneteenth as a catalyst for change—a day to recommit ourselves to the principles of equity and justice in the health sector and beyond.
Join us in this movement by reflecting on the impacts of slavery in our society, acknowledging the unique challenges faced by Blacks and People of Color, and taking action to build a more equitable future. Together, we can make a difference.
In solidarity,
Lukenson Francois
CEO
Lakay Accès Santé