The National Viral Hepatitis Roundtable (NVHR) and the Hepatitis Education Project (HEP) condemn the systemic inequality and pervasive racism in our country that is killing and disenfranchising Black Americans. NVHR and HEP recognize that we cannot remain silent and we unequivocally stand with and support those who are raising their voices against the deeply rooted racial injustices in our country.
The horrific deaths of George Floyd, Ahmaud Arbery, Breonna Taylor and so many others demonstrate a system that oppresses and limits opportunity for Black Americans, and highlight pervasive inequalities facing Black Americans. As advocates fighting for health equity, it is clear that systemic racism is prevalent across most institutions and has created health disparities that overwhelmingly impact Black Americans. This is evident by the fact that Black Americans are twice as likely to die from hepatitis B or hepatitis C compared to their white counterparts.
NVHR and HEP reaffirm our commitment to fight for greater health equity, and improved access and treatment options for Black Americans and all minorities. We are committed to doing everything possible to fight systemic racism in the healthcare system and across America.