Health Equity: Why It Should Matter To You

Dr. Tanya M. Bass (she/her) is an award-winning sexuality educator and mental health advocate committed to advancing health equity through culturally responsive and inclusive professional development.

Advancing health equity is a critical part of any public health framework. Gaining a better understanding of how racism and discrimination are root causes of health disparities through a historical perspective allows organizations to make better policy and programmatic decisions. Dismantling systems of oppression requires consistent learning, assessment, and collective support.

Dr. Bass supports organizations in developing health equity frameworks with an understanding of the social, economic, environmental, and cultural determinants and drivers of health. Tanya has been working to increase cultural consciousness and reduce health disparities for more than 20 years. She has provided technical assistance and support to state and local governments and communities by using the CLAS standards to reach the underserved and marginalized.