Social Justice Health Advocacy and Policy Panel (Attending a general interest conference or workshop) — Natalie Alexander (Class of 2029) 3 points

On October 23, I attended a Health Advocacy and Policy Panel discussion hosted by the Health Advocacy Initiative of the Spelman College Social Justice Program. During the event, I heard from three female panelists who previously or currently work within the realm of health policy and advocacy. The panelists of the evening consisted of Khadijah Ameen, Natasha Taylor, and Leah Chan. The title of the event was “Our Health, Our Policy: From Systems to Action” which was reflective of the overall topics of discussion during the event. We discussed the recent changes in national vaccine regulations as well as the United States’ separation from the WHO and other global health organizations. Each of the panelists shared their thoughts on the state of healthcare within the nation, and what the future will most likely look like. As listeners, it was very interesting hearing each of the panelists’ perspectives on how the healthcare realm has evolved throughout their time working in the industry, but also getting the ability to ask them questions and share our opinions on the nation’s healthcare status. Being able to talk openly about our stances on how the government has negatively impacted the quality of healthcare within the country was extremely refreshing, particularly because I was unable to have these raw conversations back in high school. As someone who is very passionate about Global Public Health and Health Advocacy, I thoroughly enjoyed the opportunity to hear from and connect with successful females in my desired field. Attending this event sparked my interest in becoming an associate for the Spelman College Social Justice Program where I can assist with organizing and attending various Health Advocacy initiatives. I am definitely looking forward to the next Health Advocacy event the Social Justice Program or another Spelman College organization puts together as well as keeping in touch with the connections I fostered at this event. 

By Natalie Alexander