Resolution Against Racism, Racial Discrimination & Their Adverse Impact on Mental Health

(Approved by the APA Board of Trustees, July 2006 and prepared by the Committee of Black Psychiatrists of the Council of Minority Mental Health and Health Disparities)

Endorsement Statement:

The issue of racism and racial discrimination has been recognized by the American Psychiatric Association as a contributor to ongoing health and mental health disparities, and as a significant contributor to diminishing optimal mental functioning in individuals and communities who are the victims of racism as evidenced by cross cultural empirical studies.  Individual, structural and perceived racism can be broken down into subtypes that broadly impact all of society. The changing demographics in America, increasing health care costs and the persistence of health care disparities highlight the necessity of a firm position from the American Psychiatric Association about racism and racial discrimination.

The Black Psychiatrists of America heartily endorses the Resolution against Racism and Racial Discrimination as put forward by the Committee of Black Psychiatrists and the Council of Minority Mental Health and Health Disparities.

Click here to read the full statement