The Health Equity and Anti-Racism Community Advisory Group (HEARCAG) has made significant strides in advancing racial and health equity in King County. As 2025 comes to a close, HEARCAG reflects on its accomplishments, highlighting strategic collaborations that have strengthened public health initiatives.
Key Accomplishments of HEARCAG in 2025
- Organized spaces for community engagement amid challenging federal changes.
- Launched a policy committee focusing on food justice, gender affirming care, and community power.
- Engaged with Public Health leadership, influencing the 2026-27 budget and strategic planning.
- Made advocacy efforts heard among elected officials, enhancing collective power.
Impact on Community Health
Co-Chair Yordanos Teferi emphasized the goal of fostering accountable partnerships between community members and Public Health. Strategies are being implemented to address health disparities, particularly in response to racism as a public health crisis.
Focus Areas for HEARCAG
HEARCAG is participating in the national initiative “Healing Through Policy” alongside notable organizations like the de Beaumont Foundation and the American Public Health Association. This initiative aims to address critical health disparities by enhancing data collection on race and ethnicity.
- Budget priorities that elevate Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) voices.
- Prioritization of health and human services over punitive legal systems.
- Commitment to food justice to combat food insecurity in BIPOC communities.
Voices from the Community
Rosi Bolatagici from the Pacific Islander Community Association stated the need for culturally relevant food access, emphasizing the role of community collaboration in addressing disparities. Members of HEARCAG report feeling supported and empowered through mentorship initiatives.
Tiara Ranson, a Research Associate, reflected on the collaborative environment that fosters strategic discussions around best practices for community support. Executive Director Kalika Curry and Public Health’s Community Partnerships Manager Jennell Hicks also highlighted the value of HEARCAG’s work in pushing for progressive community health strategies.
HEARCAG’s Background and Future Directions
Founded in early 2020, HEARCAG focuses on dismantling racist systems and ensuring accountability from institutions in King County. The group has established partnerships with numerous organizations, including healthcare, educational institutions, and community services.
- African Americans Reach & Teach Health
- Coalition for Immigrants, Refugees, and Communities of Color
- Urban League of Metropolitan Seattle
- And many other local community organizations.
As HEARCAG reflects on the past year, it prepares for future challenges, committed to advocating for health equity and community empowerment in King County. For more information, visit El-Balad.
