WHAT: Grand Rapids African American Health Institute (GRAAHI) will host “The Color of COVID: A Candid Discussion About an Illness that is Killing Us,” on Thursday, December 17 from 6:30 – 7:30 pm. This free event will feature a roundtable discussion on protecting the community as COVID-19 surges within West Michigan. Those that attend will hear from a panel of experts including, Vanessa Greene, CEO at GRAAHI, Dr. Talawnda Bragg, Internal Medicine Hospitalist and Director of Internal Health Residency Program at Spectrum Health, Joe Jones, Second Ward Commissioner of the City of Grand Rapids, and Executive Director of Urban League, Elisa Perez, Owner, CEO, therapist, Inclusive Empowerment Services, LLC, and Leon Hendrix, Communications at Spectrum Health.

“From a historical perspective, the Tuskegee syphilis study is widely recognized as a reason for mistrust,” said Vanessa Greene, CEO at GRAAHI. “However, the history of medical and research abuse of African Americans goes well beyond Tuskegee. We have every reason to be concerned and skeptical. But, the reality is that this is a serious virus. Over 300,000 people in the US have lost their lives and African Americans have been impacted at a higher percentage rate than other populations. This is not something we want to risk our lives on if there is a cure. The Grand Rapids African American Health Institute will provide ongoing panels, discussions, and forums to keep you informed in ways that you can make the best decisions for yourself and your family.” 

During the event, panelists will discuss the health and economic toll COVID-19 has had on communities of color,  the problematic clinical trials, and the rollout of the vaccine. 

This event has three main goals:  

1. Creating greater awareness about the devastating impact of this virus.

2. Providing the community with a number of ways they can take action and save lives.

3. Connecting our community to resources and services available to protect from the damage this virus has created. 

This event is made possible thanks to sponsors Spectrum Health, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Mercantile Bank of Michigan, and Old National Bank. 

WHEN: Thursday, December 17th, from 6:30 – 7:30 pm

WHERE: Facebook Live

WHO: Grand Rapids African American Health Institute (GRAAHI)

Registration: http://bit.ly/3gR8g2h 

About Grand Rapids African American Health Institute:
The Grand Rapids African American Health Institute is a leading national organization devoted to achieving healthcare parity for African Americans. Driven by research and committed to education and advocacy, GRAAHI aims to create awareness and develop programs that achieve positive health outcomes for all communities. The organization seeks to ensure that all people have optimal health care and benefit from health systems without race being an impediment. GRAAHI operates under four pillars of service: Community, Advocacy, Research, and Education. For more information on GRAAHI visit: www.graahi.org. 

###