Health and wellness issues are a major concern for people across the globe. In Canada, like in many other countries, there are certain groups that are disproportionately affected by health and wellness issues. One such group is Black Canadians, who face a range of health and wellness issues that are both physical and mental in nature.

One of the biggest physical health issues faced by Black Canadians is cardiovascular disease.  Studies have shown that Black Canadians have a higher prevalence of hypertension, which is a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease. Additionally, Black Canadians are also more likely to have type 2 diabetes and to be obese, both of which are also risk factors for cardiovascular disease.

Mental health is another area of concern for Black Canadians. Studies have shown that black Canadians experience higher rates of anxiety and depression than the general population. This is likely due, at least in part, to the systemic racism and discrimination that Black Canadians face on a daily basis. The stress and trauma associated with experiencing racism and discrimination can have a profound impact on mental health.

Access to healthcare is also a concern for Back Canadians. Studies have shown that Black Canadians are less likely to have access to quality

healthcare services than the general population. This is due, in part, to systemic barriers that prevent Black Canadians from accessing healthcare services, such as language barriers, discrimination, and lack of culturally appropriate healthcare services.

In order to address these health and wellness issues among Black Canadians, there needs to be a concerted effort to address systemic barriers and provide access to quality healthcare services. This includes increasing funding for healthcare services in black communities, improving the cultural competency of healthcare providers, and addressing the underlying systemic racism and discrimination that contributes to poor health outcomes for Black Canadians.

Targeted interventions and strategies are needed in addressing the physical and mental health needs of Black Canadians, combined with challenging systemic barriers that prevent them from accessing quality healthcare services. By working together to address these issues, we can create a healthier and more equitable society for all Canadians.

The Jamaican Canadian Association and Black Creek Community Health Centre will therefore be hosting a free Community Health & Wellness Family Fair, to be held at the Jamaican Canadian Centre (900 Arrow Rd. Toronto, ON) on Sunday, March 5^th from 10 am to 4 pm.   While all are welcome to attend, the target audience for the event will be the African-Caribbean-Black community.

The event will include displays with health resources, facilitated learning sessions about various health topics relevant to the Black community, health checks, screenings and wellness activities.  A number of professionals, organizations, institutions and associations will be present to showcase their knowledge and services and to engage with community members.  They include:

• Black Physicians Association of Ontario (BPAO)
• Caribbean African Canadian (CAFCAN) Social Services
• Canadian Black Clergy and Allies
• Canadian Diabetes Association
• Cole’s World Non-Profit Foundation
• George Brown College
• Humber River Hospital
• Northwestern Toronto Ontario Health Team
• Sickle Cell Awareness Group of Ontario (SCAGO)
• Toronto Public Health
• The Walnut Foundation
• The Caribbean Consular Corp

Black Creek CHC will be offering Blood pressure checks, Blood sugar tests and community resources.  Other offerings for guests will include free massages, a men’s barbershop corner, children’s dental screening, diabetic foot-care and children’s activities.  This, against the backdrop of African Caribbean music, food and healthy vibes at the cultural venue of the Jamaican Canadian Centre.