BPHC Announces Health Equity Advisory Committee

BPHC Announces Health Equity Advisory Committee

New Committee will advise BPHC in its work to advance equity for all Boston residents

BOSTON - Thursday, October 12, 2017 - Yesterday at the Board of Health meeting, the Boston Public Health Commission (BPHC) introduced the newly selected 2017-2019 Health Equity Advisory Committee. The diverse, 10-member group will advise the BPHC in the development of policy matters, communications, data, and inclusive community engagement practices. "We are excited to kick off this new committee with residents that are committed to working with the BPHC on promoting health by addressing access to safe and affordable housing, living wages, education opportunities and healthy environments," said BPHC Executive Director Monica Valdes Lupi, JD, MPH. "Having a Health Equity Advisory Committee that reflects the communities we serve is critical for shaping policies and systems that improve the quality of life for all Bostonians."   The Health Equity Advisory Committee is comprised of 10 Boston residents, who live in seven different neighborhoods across Boston. This group includes health professionals, social workers, and community organizers, who are native Bostonians and who come from other parts of the country and the world.  Members will inform BPHC efforts by sharing ideas and experiences, and representing the concerns and interests of their communities. Members will also serve as a resource for bringing back information about public health with their communities. The 2017-2019 Health Equity Advisory Committee includes: Paulette Durrett, Mattapan John A. Howard, Dorchester Kendra Liburd, Dorchester Damián Lima, Jamaica Plain Tiara Murphy, Charlestown Kristen Risley, Dorchester Edna G. Rivera-Carrasco, Hyde Park Angelica Sierra, South End Tim Wang, Brighton Athene Wilson-Glover, Dorchester

About the Boston Public Health Commission

The Boston Public Health Commission, the country's oldest health department, is an independent public agency providing a wide range of health services and programs. It is governed by a seven-member board of health appointed by the Mayor of Boston. Public service and access to quality health care are the cornerstones of our mission - to protect, preserve, and promote the health and well-being of all Boston residents, particularly those who are most vulnerable. The Commission's more than 40 programs are grouped into six bureaus: Child, Adolescent & Family Health; Community Health Initiatives; Homeless Services; Infectious Disease; Recovery Services; and Emergency Medical Services.