Racism And Ethnic Discrimination A Public Health...

Introduction Health inequities are defined as â€Å"differences which are unnecessary and avoidable, but in addition are considered unfair and unjust† (Whitehead 1992, p.431). Numerous studies provide evidence of deep seated and continued health inequities between Maori and non-Maori in Aoteroa/ New Zealand (McCreanor 2008). The role of social, political, environmental and economic factors have in determining health outcomes for individuals and social groups is increasingly being recognised globally. These factors include determinants such as housing, education, employment status, income, deprivation and racism (Robson Harris 2007). There is increasing body of evidence that show that racism and ethnic discrimination negatively impact the health and well-being of individuals and ethnic groups (Gee 2002). Based on these findings, many researchers have proposed that programmes targeted at reducing racism are a public health measures that could mitigate health inequities (McKenzie 2003). Mass media is extremely powerful institution that massively influences all areas of social interactions (Rosenberg 2002, cited in McCreanor 2008). It shapes the ideological patterns and what is regarded as norm, ‘commonsense’ by its audience (McCreanor 1993). In Aoteroa New Zealand, racism in the media and the negative representations of Maori raises great concern, as it affects Maori/Pakeha relations, Maori self perception, and ultimately undermines Maori health and wellbeing (Barnes et al 2012).Show MoreRelatedEssay about Affirmative Action3693 Words   |  15 PagesAffirmative Action Affirmative action is a blanket term that refers to â€Å"the set of public policies and initiatives designed to help eliminate past and present discrimination based on race, color, sex or national origin,† (Sykes). Before the Civil Rights Acts of 1965 and the 1954 Scott v. Topeka decision, there were â€Å"unwritten laws and protection for white men† against competition from women and ethnic minorities in prestigious professions, creating blatant inequality (Alsbrook). AffirmativeRead MoreOne Significant Change That Has Occurred in the World Between 1900 and 2005. Explain the Impact This Change Has Made on Our Lives and Why It Is an Important Change.163893 Words   |  656 PagesE SSAYS ON TWENTIETH-C ENTURY H ISTORY In the series Critical Perspectives on the Past, edited by Susan Porter Benson, Stephen Brier, and Roy Rosenzweig Also in this series: Paula Hamilton and Linda Shopes, eds., Oral History and Public Memories Tiffany Ruby Patterson, Zora Neale Hurston and a History of Southern Life Lisa M. Fine, The Story of Reo Joe: Work, Kin, and Community in Autotown, U.S.A. Van Gosse and Richard Moser, eds., The World the Sixties Made: Politics and Culture