ABSTRACT
This chapter examines inequities in the conceptualization and practice of health (e.g., regarding access and resources). Those health inequalities are explained from a whole person, life-span perspective that affects individuals’ growth and achieving a desired quality of life. Using examples that draw on experiences of those with minority status (e.g., regarding race and sexuality), the chapter examines social justice frameworks to illustrate the deep connections among, for instance, the right to health and health policy, education, and employment in local and global contexts. An overview is offered of social justice values and principles, to show how inequities, oppression, and subordination shape systemic and self-perpetuating disparities that have intergenerational health implications for minority communities. Factors affecting the distribution of the social determinants of health are discussed regarding a number of contexts (e.g., criminal justice system, voting rights, and fair allocation of community resources). At a global level, research on whole person healthcare shows how discrimination and the environment are social justice concerns (e.g., pollution in underdeveloped countries), and how environmental health supports inclusive values and community empowerment. Students are encouraged to examine how social justice values center inclusive distribution of healthcare resources to benefit those who have been marginalized and to envision equitable policies (e.g., the health-in-all-policies advocated by the American Public Health Association). Students also consider how health communication professionals can engage in communication activism to advance social justice.
