Political Quotes

“Mr. President, last month was National Minority Health Month. Senator Scott of South Carolina joined me in introducing a Senate resolution commemorating National Minority Health Month. We couldn't quite get it over the finish line before the end of April, but I am pleased the Senate is poised to pass the resolution now. National Minority Health Month has its origins in National Negro Health Week, which Booker T. Washington established in 1915 to address the poor health status of African Americans in the early 20th century. The commemorative month is helpful because it improves the public's awareness of the health challenges that disproportionately affect racial and ethnic minorities in the United States. It helps us to celebrate the progress we have made in addressing health disparities. Most important, it is a measure to recommit ourselves to tackling the longstanding health disparities that still exist. Today, because of historical and contemporary injustices across our society, including those in the healthcare system, communities of color continue to face health disparities that result in poorer quality of life and lower life expectancies when compared to their White counterparts. For people of color who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender--LGBT--these disparities are often exacerbated. Disparities in healthcare access, treatment, and outcomes are significant for a variety of reasons.…”