As we observe Black History Month this February, we acknowledge the long-standing systemic barriers that Black Canadians face in accessing essential resources such as healthcare, housing, and economic opportunities. These challenges are rooted in historical and ongoing discrimination that shapes the lived experiences of many in our community today. Addressing these inequities requires an intersectional lens that recognizes how multiple forms of marginalization interact to create unique disadvantages. By understanding these layers, we can work towards systemic solutions that lead to meaningful change.

Intersectionality, Social Determinants of Health, and the Cycle of Systemic Marginalization

Intersectionality is a framework that examines how various social identities—such as race, gender, and socioeconomic status—overlap to create unique experiences of disadvantage or privilege. In health, this means recognizing that overlapping forms of discrimination can compound, leaving marginalized individuals in our community at a greater disadvantage.

The social determinants of health are the conditions in which people are born, grow, live, work, and age, including education, income, housing, and access to healthcare. For many Black Canadians, systemic discrimination negatively affects these determinants, contributing to health inequities.

The combined effects of barriers to healthcare, employment, income, and housing create a persistent cycle of inequity for marginalized communities. These interconnected challenges intensify one another, making it even harder for individuals and families to achieve and maintain overall well-being.

This cycle of marginalization is self-reinforcing: Each challenge creates a ripple effect. Financial instability and inadequate housing worsen toxic stress and health challenges. Meanwhile, health challenges and barriers to accessing healthcare limit a person's ability to work or maintain stable housing. For families, this cycle is particularly devastating, as it affects not only adults but also the development and future opportunities of children who grow up in these environments.

Systemic Marginalization and Its Impact on Black Communities.

The long history of systemic discrimination in Canada has created persistent inequities for Black communities, particularly in housing, employment, and healthcare. These barriers are interconnected, reinforcing one another and deepening disparities in health, economic stability, and well-being.

For generations, Black communities in Canada have faced systemic exclusion from stable housing—ranging from historical forced displacement to present-day discrimination in securing affordable housing. These systemic issues directly contribute to health disparities, as housing instability is linked to increased mental health concerns, higher stress levels, and difficulty accessing healthcare resources.

Black Canadians also experience disproportionately high levels of stress due to racism-related trauma, compounding these barriers. The daily toll of discrimination, racial profiling, and systemic exclusion is a significant public health concern, often leading to an increased risk of chronic health conditions. However, access to adequate healthcare remains a challenge, as systemic biases within medical institutions have led to dismissive treatment, underdiagnosis, and a lack of culturally responsive care.

A Commitment to Equity in Caring for Our Community

Overcoming systemic inequities requires more than awareness—it demands action. At CUPS, we take a holistic, trauma-informed, and integrated approach to care, ensuring individuals and families facing systemic marginalization have access to healthcare, stable housing, and economic support.

By deepening our understanding of intersectionality and the social determinants of health, we address the complex challenges our community faces and their lasting impact on health and well-being. We invite individuals and families to break cycles of poverty and trauma within a community that fosters well-being from every angle.

We prioritize dignity, collaboration, humility, and continuous learning as the foundation of a community-based response. By working alongside others who share our commitment to addressing inequities, fostering shared understanding, and driving collaborative action, we create change—together.

A Future Rooted in Equity and Inclusion

Honouring Black History Month means celebrating the resilience and contributions of Black Canadians while also acknowledging the historical injustices that have shaped the systemic inequities we see today. These injustices have had lasting consequences, but by learning from the past, we reaffirm our commitment to building a future rooted in equity, inclusion, and meaningful change.