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A talk by Harvard University sociology and public health professor David Williams, who says racism and discrimination, unconscious or otherwise, is damaging the physical and mental health of all Americans.

He believes we are not the healthiest people in the world, and we should be.

'Structural racism' blamed for some of state's severe health disparities

How racism affects your health

Williams says discrimination, racism and segregation are creating what he calls "a truly rigged system," and that the physical and mental health of all Americans is threatened by individual and institutional racism. 

Williams spoke October 6, 2017, at the University of Minnesota Humphrey School. After his 35 minute talk, he participated in a panel discussion moderated by University of Minnesota professor Larry Jacobs. It included former Minnesota Health Commissioner and Allina executive Jan Malcolm and Sahra Noor, a nurse and CEO of People's Center Health Services.

To listen to the program, click the audio player above.

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A talk by Harvard University sociology and public health professor David Williams, who says racism and discrimination, unconscious or otherwise, is damaging the physical and mental health of all Americans.


A talk by Harvard University sociology and public health professor David Williams, who says racism and discrimination, unconscious or otherwise, is damaging the physical and mental health of all Americans. Williams gave a call to action at a University of Minnesota Humphrey School event.

David Williams: racism is damaging our health

Nurse Joy Larmouth works to reach parents whose kids need measles shots.

David Williams: racism is damaging our health

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