Resources

The effects of racism and systemic racism on overall health

December 3, 2024
  • Misc. Resources
A poster featuring two workers wearing their uniforms at their workplaces. On the right side there is a welder holding his safety mask, adn on the left, there a nurse. There. is a text at the bottom saying: The effects of racism and systemic racism on overall health

According to the Canadian Public Health Association, “Racism is insidious and affects all aspects of life. Those who experience racism exhibit poorer health outcomes including negative mental health outcomes, negative physical health outcomes and negative health-related behaviours.”

The impacts of racism – whether they are systemic or interpersonal – bear negative effects to the overall health of Black and racialized workers, especially if the trauma is ongoing and prolonged.

This visual representation shows us that exposure to the hazard (racism) results in negative mental and physical health effects to Black and racialized workers.

Resources and further reading:

The Traumatizing Impact of Racism in Canadians of Colour

Inequalities in health of racialized adults in Canada

Racism is a public health issue in Canada—it’s time to speak out

B.C. Federation of Labour: Strengthening Recourse and Protections for Workers Experiencing Systemic Racism

The indignities of working with racialization: physical, emotional and familial tolls of experiencing workplace racism

Download

Request this file in a different format