ABSTRACT
Racial and ethnic disparities in healthcare span the entirety of the healthcare system in the United States. Eliminating disparities is politically sensitive and challenging matters because the disparities intertwine with a contentious history of racial injustice in America. Such inequities and lacks of access to preventive measures have led to increases in the numbers of chronic conditions and diseases among African Americans. They also have greater vulnerabilities to novel viruses, such as COVID-19, and to unknown diseases. This essay contends that black churchgoers are vital agents in community identity and formation and therefore positioned well to help achieve healthcare equity. Additionally, the essay discusses how black churches can use advocacy to advance healthcare policy and legislation.
