Advancing Health Equity Using Health Impact Assessment, Community Organizing and Advocacy

Today's political climate poses significant threats to health and to the social, economic and political resources necessary for health and well-being, especially for lower income communities and communities of color. In this context, the practice of Health Impact Assessment (HIA) has taken off nationally as a research and community engagement tool to ensure that decision-making related to a wide range of factors - including employment, education, housing, and transportation - promotes health in these communities. This workshop will highlight how advocates can use HIA in campaigns by introducing HIA, describing two case studies, and conducting an exercise to brainstorm ideas for HIAs.