We are certainly living in difficult times. Navigating through the COVID-19 pandemic can seem daunting. I have discussed in my various platforms why we need to take COVID-19 seriously as well indicate things we can do to remain healthy amidst the pandemic. However, I felt compelled to talk about another pandemic that we are currently living in — that pandemic is the systemic and institutional racism that has been simmering on the surface for decades, but was really brought to the forefront through the recent tragic murders of Ahmaud Arbery, George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, Rayshard Brooks, and many, many, many more. How did we as a people get to this point? Why am I even talking about a subject like this on a health blog?
To answer the second question, the World Health Organization’s official definition of health as the a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity. I believe that health is about more than just lower cholesterol and lower blood pressure — it’s about not fearing for your life when you go out for a jog, or sleep in your own house, or eat ice cream, or shop at a local Walmart. It’s about not fearing for your life when being pulled over for a routine traffic stop.
To answer the first question, I had Darryl Edwards stop by this episode of Fasting and Beyond (recorded on June 6, 2020) to help me. Darryl was a previous guest of mine and is well versed in the topics of exercise, movement, and physical activity (check out our previous episode of Fasting and Beyond by clicking HERE). He is also very knowledgeable on the subject of race and he came to educate us all on it. Some of the important points of our chat include:
- When did people first begin to be classified by their race? Why did it start? How did the classifications evolve over the years?
- How was the classification of race used to justify slavery during the trans-Atlantic slave trade?
- How were laws used to keep people of color marginalized long after slavery was abolished and deemed illegal?
Some other important items that were covered include:
- How people who never owned slaves are still benefiting from the ills of slavery from hundreds of years ago.
- Darryl gives examples of racism that he experienced both professionally and personally.
- He shares his experience of racism in the health and wellness space.
- He explains how there is an increased health risk for people of color in countries that have a history of systemic institutional racism.
- We argue that we need to be talking about socioeconomic disparities in health and wellness circles.
- Darryl and I also talked about the Black Lives Matter movement: What is it? What is it not?
We wrapped up our chat by talking about possible solutions to the problem. What we can all do to be a part of the solution — to be an ally.
I hope you approach this chat with an open heart and an open mind.
*** Featured Image courtesy of NPR.
DISCLAIMER: The advice on this page is not meant to replace or represent medical advice. This is nutritional advice, which is NOT the same as medical advice. Before any weight loss endeavor, the consultation of an experienced health care provider is a must. As a general rule, the following individuals should not participate in fasting:
- Diabetics-particularly those on insulin
- Lactating women
- Pregnant women
- Individuals with a history of eating disorders
- Children under the age of 18
This list is not
Interaction through this blog’s associated social media accounts, podcasts, and other venues associated with The Fasting Doctor does not constitute a patient-physician relationship. Likewise, it does not constitute medical advice. By continuing to access this blog or related resources, you acknowledge and agree that the content and contributors are not liable for your personal use of dietary and wellness advice found in our contents. You acknowledge our recommendation to consult your care provider before utilizing our nutritional information.
For more information, please contact me at info@thefastingdoctor.com!
No Comments