August 2023 Newsletter

New report: Latino voices have gone unheard, harming health equity

A groundbreaking report, titled "Unheard: How Silencing Latino Voices Harms Latino Health Equity," has been released by Common Ground Health. The report, available in English and in Spanish, sheds light on the health inequities faced by the fast-growing Latino community in the area, emphasizing the detrimental effects of being ignored, silenced, and marginalized.

Rudy Rivera, Chair of the Latino Health Coalition, stressed the importance of the report, stating, "For too long, our concerns have been silenced. This report helps us ensure people are listening when we call for change."

Latino share of the population within each census tract, Finger Lakes region and Monroe County

The report underscores the exponential growth of the Latino population in the Finger Lakes region and highlights disparities stemming from poverty and lack of access to healthcare. For example, Latinos experience higher rates of diabetes, high blood pressure, colorectal cancer, and opioid overdose compared to their non-Latino counterparts.

Top causes of premature death for Latinos in the Finger Lakes region (2018-2020)

Stark examples from the COVID-19 pandemic further highlight the impact of silencing Latino voices: Latino patients were hospitalized and died at significantly higher rates than White non-Latino residents.

The report outlines actionable steps to address these disparities, including promoting better data collection, improving accessibility of health interventions, standardizing language access criteria, advocating for more Latino healthcare professionals, and addressing mental health concerns within the community.

Read the report »

Community Wellness Summit: Save the Date

Call for workshop proposals for Community Wellness Summit

You are invited to submit a workshop proposal for the upcoming Community Wellness Summit, taking place on October 19 at Asbury First United Methodist Church. Proposals are due August 21.

There will be four learning tracks for participants:
• System-level change
• Culturally and linguistically responsive practices
• School-based socio-emotional health
• Youth voice and choice

Learn more and submit your proposal »

A Call to Women of Color returns September 16

A Call to Women of Color returns from 12 to 6 p.m. on Saturday, September 16 at Genesee Valley Park. The gathering is a free annual event that focuses on empowering women of color to engage in conversation and to promote healthy living among women.

This year's event features Eldress Martha Hope of Senior Expressions, Inc., Shanterra Mitchum, Director of Rochester Programs at Teen Empowerment, and Mary Burroughs from the NYS Department of Health. Local vendors who are women of color will be selling their creations, and free food and music will be offered.

Learn more and reserve your spot »