Public Health Research and Framing as Organizing and Advocacy Tools

Over 50% of our health is determined by social and environmental conditions, not by doctors or genetics. In this session, we explore how research and communications about the effects of proposed policies related to these conditions and on community health can be effective organizing and advocacy tools for racial justice. Specifically, we will discuss how this approach was used in recent organizing campaigns related to school integration in Minnesota and Federal immigration reform. We highlight how health provides a lens to: address issues of community concern through holistic and integrated organizing; frame issues; build broader coalitions; and mobilize additional spokespeople.