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“Why Should We Trust You?” Robert Kennedy Jr. Documentary draws back the curtain of medical racism

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4 years ago

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BY SIMONE J. SMITH

“It seems, then, that when the experiments are sufficiently important, the use of African volunteers is justified.” J.F. Corson, Medical Officer, Tinde Laboratory, Tanganyika 1938

Last week, members of the African-Caribbean came to me concerned about posters in their buildings, notifying them that community organizations would be coming around to encourage them to set appointments to get one of the COVID-19 vaccines.

I could not believe when I saw the line around Driftwood Community Centre, people all waiting to get their vaccination. On social media, the current trend is a celebration of vaccination. Our community leaders all proudly are rolling up their sleeves to show the world that they had been vaccinated.

There is good reason that all of this is happening. Africans in the diaspora are 3.5 times more likely to die from COVID-19 than Caucasians, according to a May 2020 analysis on MedRxiv. Every day, our media here in North America reminds us about the rise in cases, and deaths caused by COVID-19. The fear that has been caused by this is the reason for the rush. Our government officials and mainstream media remind us that the only way to curb the spread of COVID-19 is to get vaccinated, continue to wear our masks, and stay home.

It is important that we honour the feelings of everyone during this time. I completely understand why many are feeling strongly about getting this vaccine. Most of us just want to get back to the way things were in 2019, when we could go out with friends, visit family, and enjoy a night out. What we cannot do is discredit the stories and experiences of those who have experienced atrocities so horrible, that even though they are in the past, they have not been forgotten.

Racism within medicine is real, and it begins far outside of what we typically think of as the healthcare system. Africans in the Americas suffer from higher levels of stress and hypertension then their Caucasian counterparts, and this is largely driven by the racism they experience. These health disparities are also part of the reason why people of colour generally have higher mortality rates from COVID-19, as they are more likely to have underlying conditions that make COVID-19 even more dangerous.

What I want to do in this article is draw back the curtain of racism that is found in the healthcare system, and the reasons why there is such mistrust in the African-Caribbean community. I had the opportunity to watch Medical Racism; the New Apartheid, a new documentary co-produced by Children’s Health Defence (CHD), Centner Productions, Kevin Jenkins of the Urban Globe Health Alliance, Rev Tony Muhammed, and Author/Historian Curtis Cost.

The film (directed by Academy Award nominee David Massey) chronicles the long history of targeting minorities for unethical experiments, and the silence of physicians who allow these atrocities to continue. Many of us are familiar with the historic medical atrocities by CDC at Tuskegee, by the father of American gynecology, Dr J. Marion Sims on South Carolina slave girls, and the medical robbery of Henrietta Lacks. What we are not aware of is the routine medical barbarism that persists to this day. Some of these stories are hiding in plain sight, and the documentary takes viewers on a journey that will encourage them to question their medical professionals, and make decisions that will benefit themselves, and their families.

McGill; Office for Science and Society, Separating Sense from Nonsense, wrote a review on medical racism, “The Anti-Vaccine Propaganda of Robert F. Kennedy Jr.” Throughout the article, they found ways to pick apart his documentary stating that he mixed real examples of racism in healthcare and vaccine misinformation to push an anti-vaccine agenda on marginalized communities of colour.

I find that interesting, because at the very beginning, and at the end of the documentary, Robert Kennedy Jr., explains that he is not telling people not to get a vaccine, or to get the vaccine. What he wants people to be is educated on what they are putting in their bodies. Naturally, there are people who may not want this information out there because it would discredit the powers that want this vaccine out in the general public. What the documentary also does is empower individuals in marginalized communities to ask questions and take back control over their bodies.

The article from McGill spent a lot of time tearing down Robert Kennedy Jr.’s work, but what they did not do is highlight the experiences of parents who have experienced suffering through their children. Parents who have seen their children change drastically after receiving routine vaccines. The fact that autism runs rampant in the Somalian communities in America, the United Kingdom and right here in Toronto. What I learned is that in Somalia, they don’t even have a word that means autism. Many families only started experiencing autism in their communities when they emigrated from Somalia to Europe and the Americas.

What McGill also failed to mention is that medical researchers at the Centres for Disease Control (CDC) and Johns Hopkins University injected thousands of babies in the Third World with the experimental vaccine that reportedly caused chronic immune suppression and the deaths of an unknown number of babies.

How about the more than 1,500 six-month-old black and Hispanic babies in inner-city Los Angeles, who were enrolled in an experiment starting in June 1990? The McGill article makes no mention of the fact that the study was halted in October 1991 after there were repeated reports from vaccine trial sites in Africa that girl babies were dying in higher than expected numbers six months to three years after vaccination.

We cannot ignore the fact that CDC director David Satcher admitted in a June 17th Los Angeles Times article that informed consent regulations had been violated, because the parents were not told their babies would be injected with an experimental vaccine that had never been licensed by the FDA for use in America.

Both Kaiser and the CDC have feverishly denied that any of the Los Angeles babies were harmed by the high potency EZ vaccine, but they did admit that one child, who received a standard potency EZ vaccine, died from a bacterial infection they maintain is unrelated to the vaccination.

In the same LA Times article, the CDC’s Chief Satcher referred to the failure to tell the parents in LA that the EZ vaccine was experimental as a “little mistake” and not a deliberate attempt to deceive them. It was maintained that the failure to inform the parents was an administrative “oversight.”

The New York Times article “Why Africa Fears Western Medicine,” (2007) openly discusses how Africa has harboured a number of high-profile Western medical interventionists, who have intentionally administered deadly agents under the guise of providing health care or conducting research.

In March 2000, Werner Bezwoda, a cancer researcher at South Africa’s Witwatersrand University, was fired after conducting medical experiments involving very high doses of chemotherapy on black breast-cancer patients, and apparently this was done without their knowledge or consent.

Richard McGown, a Scottish anesthesiologist, was accused of five murders and convicted in the deaths of two infant patients whom he injected with lethal doses of morphine in Zimbabwe (1995), and we can’t forget Dr. Michael Swango, who plead guilty to killing three American patients with lethal injections of potassium. He is also suspected of causing the deaths of sixty other people, many of them in Zimbabwe and Zambia during the 1980s and ’90s. Unfortunately, Dr. Swango was never tried on the African charges.

Probably the most notorious is Wouter Basson. He was charged with killing hundreds of Africans in South Africa and Namibia, from 1979 to 1987, many via injected poisons. Questionably, he was never convicted in South African courts, even though his lieutenants testified in detail about the medical crimes they conducted against Africans.

Is it no surprise that Africans, and Africans living in the Diaspora do not trust doctors or hospitals? Despite trends in the reduction of racial prejudice over recent decades, the continued marginalization of black Americans takes place at every level of the contemporary medical system.

Our world governments, and the medical community must address the real sense of suspicion, distrust, and cynicism that is deeply embedded in the African collective memory. Earning the trust of the community is a very difficult feat given our history, but medical education systems, hospitals, and physicians themselves must take steps to address this issue.

One way this can be done in Canada is by not forcing a vaccine on those who have doubts and mistrust. Instead, listen to their stories; don’t make them feel ostracized for feeling how they feel, and finally, let them know that they do have a choice. After all, Canada is the true North strong and free.

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We, as humans are guaranteed certain things in life: stressors, taxes, bills and death are the first thoughts that pop to mind. It is not uncommon that many people find a hard time dealing with these daily life stressors, and at times will find themselves losing control over their lives. Simone Jennifer Smith’s great passion is using the gifts that have been given to her, to help educate her clients on how to live meaningful lives. The Hear to Help Team consists of powerfully motivated individuals, who like Simone, see that there is a need in this world; a need for real connection. As the founder and Director of Hear 2 Help, Simone leads a team that goes out into the community day to day, servicing families with their educational, legal and mental health needs.Her dedication shows in her Toronto Caribbean newspaper articles, and in her role as a host on the TCN TV Network.

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Urban Alliance on Race Relations celebrates and highlights Racial Justice Award recipients

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3 days ago

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December 19, 2024

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BY PAUL JUNOR

It has been almost 40 years since the Urban Alliance on Race Relations (UARR) has been at the forefront of: promoting tolerance, social justice, racial equity and fairness. Since it was formed in 1975, they have celebrated and recognized changemakers in the fight for racial justice in diverse sectors such as: health, labour, government, education, arts, media, environment, and justice.

On Saturday, December 7th, 2024, there was a great turnout at the 2024 Racial Justice Awards Night held at The Estate Banquet & Event Centre in Scarborough. In attendance were many community supporters, civic officials, long-time racial justice warriors, and individuals from diverse ethnic groups.

UARR is grateful for all the sponsors of the Racial Justice Awards Night Celebration. It notes in its email to its supporters on Tuesday, December 3rd, 2024, the importance of its sponsors including:

  • United Food and Commercial Workers (UFCW) of Canada, UFCW, Local 175
  • The International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) Local 353
  • Unite Here! Local 75
  • Toronto & York Region Labour Council
  • Canadian Labour Congress
  • The Coalitions of Black Trade Union (CBTUL)

“Your sponsorship plays a vital role in shining a light on individuals and organizations driving equity, justice, and change in our communities. This celebration is more than an event, it’s a movement. Thanks to your support, we’re: honoring changemakers, amplifying unheard voices, and funding initiatives that break down systemic barriers.”

The categories and names of the awards and recipients were:

Racial Justice in Arts: Hannia Cheng

She is an artist and cultural worker who co-founded Unit 270, a DIY gallery and multi-purpose grassroots community hub in Chinatown Centre.

Racial Justice in Labour: Vanessa Story

She is the founder of the Black Youth York Region and co-founder of the York Communities for Public Education coalition.

Racial Justice in Education: Shannon Simpson

She is Senior Director of Indigenous Initiatives at the University of Toronto.

Racial Justice in Environment: Dr. Ingrid Waldron

She is a Professor and HOPE Chair in Peace and Health in the Global and Peace and Social Justice Program in the Faculty of Humanities at McMaster University.

Urban Alliance of Race Relations Agent of Change Award: Kirk Mark

He is the Equity, Diversity and Inclusive Consultant at KIRK Mark & Associates.

Racial Justice in Media: Amanda Parris

She is an award-winning writer, tv host and producer, and former host of CBC Arts Exhibitionist.

Racial Justice in Health: Camille Orridge

She is former CEO of the Toronto Central Local Health Integration Network (TCLHIN).

Racial Justice in Government: Amira Elghawaby

She is a journalist and human rights advocate who was appointed in January 2023 as Canada’s Special Representative on Combating Islamophobia.

Racial Justice in Justice: South Asian Legal Clinic of Ontario (SALC0)

This legal clinic supports low-income South Asian people in Canada.

The funds raised from the Awards night will be going toward the work of the Diversity Youth Fellowship Program. This innovative and creative program is directly involved in enabling racialized youth to get paid experience working in municipal governments and at various public policy making organizations across Canada.

The performers at the event included: Katheen Zaragosa (a Filipino music performer), Rithika Jeristus & Maya Jeristus (Bharatanatyam dancers) and Yasmin Said (spoken word artist)

UARR is looking forward to its 50th anniversary celebrations in 2025 and shared five of its strategic priorities for the next 10 years including:

  • Employment and economic opportunity: The goal is to foster inclusive workspaces and economic opportunities.
  • Education: The goal is to promote racial equity in education and research.
  • Communication: The goal is to expand public awareness and reach to amplify our stories.
  • Community engagement and outreach: The goal is building community capacity and convening towards change.
  • Truth and reconciliation-relationship building and supporting calls to action. The goal is to strengthen our solidarity and action towards truth and reconciliation.

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What is it about those short videos that keep us captivated? Oh! Yes! Our short attention span

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3 days ago

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December 19, 2024

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BY KAHA GEDI

As our attention spans decrease, short form videos are becoming more popular. From TikTok, to YouTube Shorts, to Instagram Reels, these “snack sized” videos have positive qualities alongside the bad. Mainly we want to know what makes them so effective, and why are they becoming the go-to choice for both viewers and marketers? In this article, I will be discussing how these videos have received such popularity worldwide.

First, we need to understand what counts as and what is short-form content. According to blog.hubspot.com, “Short-form videos are videos that are less than 60 seconds long.” However, some marketers and content creators agree that short-form videos can be up to 3 minutes. “They are videos that deliver information in a ‘digestible’ format so that viewers can quickly watch and save content if they’re in a hurry or enjoy it.” Now, I’ll talk about the main reasons why these videos are so popular.

First, our attention spans have gone down exponentially. Dr Gloria Mark has written a book called “Attention Span,” and she says her research indicates people’s attention spans have been shrinking over the last 20 years. According to the same article Dr. Mark said that “Back in 2004, we found the average attention span on any screen to be two and a half minutes on average. Throughout the years, it became shorter. So, around 2012, we found it to be 75 seconds. Then in the last five, six years, we found it to average about 47 seconds.” So, it’s notable that our attention spans started out longer but then decreased over time.

Secondly, these videos have become cheaper and easier to make. Unlike long-form videos, which require extensive: planning, editing, and storytelling, short-form videos are simpler. To the point where they can even be shot on a smartphone. For example, DuoLingo, the app that helps learn new languages, went viral on TikTok a long time ago by posting funny, low-budget videos that resonate with millions. Like a video of a DuoLingo plus being: tossed down the stairs, sitting outside on a rainy day, or being soaked by the shower with the title “When you ignore my notifications.”

Lastly, they provide valuable information in a short amount of time, and they are easily accessible. According to a recent Adobe Survey, two in five Americans use TikTok as a search engine, and nearly one in 10 Gen Zeers are more likely to rely on TikTok than Google as a search engine. This isn’t always reliable for real news because anyone can claim to be an expert, and you wouldn’t know if they’re telling the truth. So, even though they give valuable information in a short time, they can also give misinformation or mislead you.

Short-form videos have changed how we watch and learn things. They fit our short attention spans, are easy to make, and share information quickly. Even though they’re fun and helpful, they can also spread false information or leave out important details. Even with these problems, short-form videos are here to stay, so we should use them in proportion, but also enjoy the benefits.

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Dr. Edward McInnis on the Importance of Preventive Care in Family Medicine

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3 days ago

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December 19, 2024

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Photo by National Cancer Institute on Unsplash

Preventive care is a cornerstone of modern healthcare, emphasizing the importance of addressing potential health concerns before they escalate into severe conditions. By focusing on proactive measures such as regular screenings, vaccinations, and lifestyle counseling, preventive care offers individuals and communities the opportunity to achieve long-term wellness.

Below, Edward McInnis highlights the transformative potential of prevention in reducing healthcare disparities, alleviating systemic challenges, and ensuring that every individual has the tools and access needed to lead a healthier life.

Understanding Preventive Care in Family Medicine

Preventive care in family medicine focuses on proactive measures to maintain health and prevent illness before it occurs. This approach emphasizes regular health evaluations, screenings, and interventions that identify potential issues early, reducing the likelihood of severe complications. Preventive care fosters long-term well-being by addressing risk factors and promoting healthier lifestyles while minimizing the burden of chronic diseases.

The philosophy behind preventive care aligns with the idea that staying healthy is more effective and less costly than treating illnesses after they arise. Early detection of conditions such as hypertension or high cholesterol allows patients and physicians to manage these issues effectively, preventing them from escalating into more severe health problems. Beyond individual benefits, this care model contributes to healthier communities by reducing the overall demand for healthcare systems.

Benefits of Preventive Care for Individuals and Communities

Preventive care profoundly impacts individuals and the broader community by addressing potential health concerns before they evolve into severe conditions. Early detection through routine screenings can significantly lower the risk of chronic illnesses such as diabetes, heart disease, and certain cancers. This improves individual health outcomes and reduces the emotional and financial toll of managing advanced diseases.

Communities prioritizing preventive care experience a ripple effect of healthier populations and reduced strain on healthcare resources. When more people engage in regular check-ups and adopt healthier habits, the prevalence of preventable conditions drops, creating a collective benefit. Individuals who invest in their health through preventive measures often enjoy longer, more active lives, positively influencing families, workplaces, and society.

The economic advantages of preventive care are undeniable, as early intervention typically costs far less than treating advanced illnesses. Vaccination programs, such as those targeting seasonal flu or childhood diseases, can drastically curb outbreaks, saving lives and reducing medical expenses. These benefits demonstrate how preventive care is a cornerstone of sustainable and effective healthcare systems.

Core Preventive Services in Family Medicine

Family medicine emphasizes various preventive services designed to address health needs across all stages of life. Regular health screenings, such as blood pressure and cholesterol checks, are critical in identifying silent health risks. These assessments provide actionable insights that allow individuals to make timely adjustments to their lifestyles or begin treatment when necessary.

Vaccinations are another cornerstone of preventive care, protecting individuals and communities from infectious diseases. From childhood immunizations to seasonal flu shots, these interventions safeguard personal health and prevent the spread of illnesses within larger populations. Counseling services, including guidance on nutrition, exercise, and stress management, empower patients to take an active role in their long-term well-being.

The Role of Family Physicians in Prevention

Family physicians play a pivotal role in fostering preventive care through their ability to build lasting, trust-based relationships with patients. These relationships enable them to understand not just medical histories but also lifestyle factors, family dynamics, and social determinants of health. This comprehensive knowledge allows physicians to craft personalized preventive strategies that resonate with each patient’s unique circumstances, ensuring a more practical approach to maintaining health.

Beyond individual care, family physicians act as educators, equipping patients with the knowledge to make informed health decisions. Whether discussing the significance of regular screenings or addressing misconceptions about vaccines, their guidance helps patients take ownership of their health.

The continuity of care provided by family physicians also ensures that preventive measures are consistently monitored and adjusted as needed, fostering long-term well-being. Their ability to provide holistic and deeply personalized care sets the foundation for healthier patients and communities.

Challenges in Accessing Preventive Care

Despite its proven benefits, accessing preventive care remains challenging for many individuals and communities. Financial barriers, such as lack of insurance coverage or high out-of-pocket costs, often deter people from seeking preventive services. Additionally, limited awareness about the importance of early detection and health promotion means that some individuals may only prioritize preventive care once a health issue becomes severe.

Geographical disparities also play a significant role in limiting access. Rural and underserved areas frequently face shortages of healthcare providers, making it difficult for residents to receive consistent preventive services. In such regions, innovative approaches like mobile health clinics and telemedicine have emerged as solutions to bridge the gap. Expanding these efforts could help overcome logistical obstacles and ensure that preventive care reaches those most in need.

Cultural factors and mistrust of the healthcare system can further complicate access to preventive services. Addressing these challenges requires a multifaceted approach that includes community engagement, culturally sensitive care, and efforts to build trust between healthcare providers and patients. Strengthening health literacy and facilitating dialogue between healthcare institutions and the communities they serve are also critical steps in overcoming these barriers.

Promoting and Advancing Preventive Care

Advancing preventive care depends on raising awareness and fostering a culture that values proactive health management. Educational campaigns, workplace wellness programs, and school-based health initiatives encourage people to adopt preventive practices. These efforts create an environment where individuals feel empowered to prioritize their well-being, leading to healthier lifestyles and earlier intervention.

The integration of technology is revolutionizing how preventive care is delivered. Wearable devices that track physical activity, heart rate, and sleep patterns provide individuals with real-time data about their health, prompting timely action when irregularities arise. Similarly, data analytics and predictive tools enable healthcare providers to identify at-risk populations and deliver targeted interventions, improving outcomes on a broader scale.

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