In 2020, Commissioner Larry Johnson sponsored legislation to declare racism as a public health crisis in DeKalb County, acknowledging that racism has played a significant role in health outcomes, socioeconomic factors, and psychosocial stressors – especially in the Black community.

A deliverable from this resolution is to continue the conversation and engage the community in healing as we move forward as a County. The National Day of Racial Healing brings ALL people together to inspire collective action to create a more just and equitable world.

In honor of the National Day of Racial Healing, Commissioner Johnson will host a virtual round table discussion themed “Moving Forward, but Not Forgetting Our Past.” The panel will be moderated by Sharon Stroye, Director of the Truth, Racial Healing, and Transformation Initiative at Emory University. Panelists include Gilda (Gigi) Pedraza, Executive Director of Latino Community Fund (LCF Georgia); Attorney Donnetta “Dee” Smith, NAACP of DeKalb County Branch Executive Committee and Dr. Yolanda Wimberly, Chief Health Equity Officer of Grady Health Systems.

This year we will celebrate the 60th Anniversary of the Civil Rights Act of 1964,” said Commissioner Larry Johnson. “ This round table is just one way for us to celebrate our achievements, acknowledge the work still to be done, and promote continued efforts towards a more inclusive and equitable society.”

We invite everyone to join the conversation on Tuesday, January 16, 2024, at 6:30 pm. Please register in advance.