Racial disparities in arrest rates for drugs are a well-documented (and lived) reality. For decades, drug policy has contributed to skyrocketing incarceration rates among minority populations. This video looks at the reasons behind these disparities, and what must be done to achieve improvements in health and racial equity.

This organization aims to engage Black women in California experiencing substance use disorder by providing culturally relevant resources and treatment options that empower their commitment to physical, spiritual and mental healing.

This video, narrated by Jay-Z, looks at the disparities in incarceration rates and health equity between different communities affected by the drug epidemic.

When it comes to our health, our zip code matters more than our genetic code. For many communities in California and across the United States, easy access to healthy food options, parks for exercise, and good schools determines quality & length of life. The California Endowment’s 10-year Building Healthy Communities initiative seeks to bring equity to all neighborhoods so that all Californians can enjoy the benefits of healthy communities to live long and prosper.

Formerly the Office of Statewide Health Planning and Development. Use this website to learn more about the CA Department of Health Care Access and Information (HCAI) commitment to expanding equitable access to health care for all Californians—ensuring every community has the health workforce they need, safe and reliable health care facilities, and health information that can help make care more effective and affordable.

This paper identifies current activities, gaps, and innovative strategies currently in use to address health equity and the social determinants of health (SDOH) within drug overdose prevention and response.

This literature review sought to investigate the root causes of the health inequities of drug overdoses and related social determinants of health (SDOH) to inform future directions of academic, state, and local health departments, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) staff and funded recipients.

Racial and ethnic minority groups are disproportionately affected by overdose-related deaths. This fact sheet discusses strategies for closing the gap in the quality of healthcare between different socioeconomic groups is vital to curbing the rate of overdose-related deaths.

Dr. Westley Clark explains the systemic injustices that have contributed to the high rates of SUD and overdose within minority communities, and what must change to improve these conditions

This discussion highlights the challenges and obstacles faced by the Latino/a/x communities when accessing overdose prevention and addiction services. It offers recommendations for creating a more equitable health care system.

This presentation discusses the history of systemic inequalities in health care, and looks at examples of effective overdose prevention strategies in other countries.

This discussion on the challenges faced by indigenous communities when accessing health care highlighted the need for better access to services and more attention to their needs from the federal government.

CA Bridge offers valuable insight into the current inequities faced by health care workers in emergency departments, and how to improve these conditions. Hear some of their incredible stories and tips on how to integrate health equity into your work environment.

This free training includes an overview of laws that affect how government can respond to health crises in ways that advance rather than hinder health equity.

This toolkit provides informative fact sheets, tips, and guidance for people who use drugs, engage in sex work, those who are unhoused, and the stakeholders who work with these communities.

This brief recommends policies to end the systemic and structural racism that continue to prevent Black Americans from achieving optimal health.

This document was originally released in 2019 as a guide to help policymakers end the opioid epidemic. This document has now been expanded to include best practices and action items regarding COVID-19 and racial inequities.

Use this tool to organize your coalition or group’s big picture thinking around health equity.