In a year like no other, our country has seen an unprecedented increase in, and awareness of, health inequities in nearly all aspects of our society. With a mission to honor those individuals working to tackle challenges ranging from the COVID-19 pandemic to the underlying institutional barriers that have exacerbated health disparities, we are excited to announce that the winner of the 2021 Robert Wood Johnson Foundation – National Civic League Health Equity Award is Melissa Robinson, of the Black Health Care Coalition based in Kansas City, Missouri! Robinson is a champion and community leader in her work with the Black Health Care Coalition and beyond; working to center Black experiences in designing health solutions, re-establish National Black Health Week throughout the United States, increase African-American participation in clinical trials, and connect with residents through genuine community engagement.
Robinson joined the National Civic League at the 2021 All-America City Awards to accept her award and share more about her work to address healthcare disparities. Robinson will also be invited to participate in the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation’s annual Health Equity Award recognition and learning event and will receive a $3,000.00 prize.
Listen to her acceptance speech below.
