by Bukola Rinola

I have seen a lack of promotion in health equity to young adults on the south side of Chicago.  However, there has been recent growth promoting the importance of understanding health equity. The Medical Program at South Shore International College Prep has helped young adults like myself to understand the meaning of public health. The program also addresses topics such as health equity and safety concerns for youth in the workplace.   Through the various activities, everyone in the class was able to understand the safety procedures needed in the workplace such as wearing personal protective equipment such as gloves, masks, and non-slip shoes. We also were able to understand the difference between equality and equity through the usage of case studies/scenarios. Partnering with organizations like South Shore International College Prep in South Side Chicago communities is truly imperative, especially for young adults.  

The University of Illinois at Chicago School of Public Health, with the Chicago Center for Health and the Environment recently visited our class.  They provided information about reducing racial, ethnic and socioeconomic disparities in under-resourced communities. I think that if there were more prevalent organizations like this on the south side of Chicago, the south side would see improved health equity.