The Health Justice and Policy Initiative is dedicated to addressing and mitigating the impacts of historical, political, and social determinants of health. The institute aims to create equitable health outcomes by focusing on systemic changes and advocating for policies addressing health disparities' root causes.

2024-2026 Public Policy Priority Areas

Housing Access

Housing policies and practices specifically impact the health and health equity of women of color in the Greater Dayton area.

Reproductive Justice

Comprehensive reproductive health care: Ensuring access to contraception, abortion services, and maternal health care through state-funded programs.

Culturally competent care: Implementing training programs for Ohio healthcare providers to offer culturally sensitive and unbiased care.

Equitable and Inclusive Health Care for All

Medicaid expansion: Continuing to support and expand Medicaid to cover more low-income individuals and families.

Bias training: Mandating bias training for healthcare providers across Ohio to reduce racial and gender disparities in medical treatment.

Transportation Access

Public transportation funding: Increasing investment in Ohio's public transportation infrastructure to improve access to essential services.

Subsidized transportation: Providing subsidized transportation options for low-income individuals in Ohio.

Enhancing Food Justice

Food assistance programs: Expanding programs like Ohio's Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) to ensure access to nutritious food.

Community gardens: Supporting community-based food systems and urban agriculture initiatives in Ohio.

These policies aim to address the systemic issues that contribute to health disparities and promote equitable outcomes for all women in Ohio.