Course Description: This is a survey course on the broad topic of Health Justice & Activism. It begins by describing certain contextual theories, definitions, and frameworks applicable to health, law, and policy, and also some of the lessons learned from relevant U.S. social movements. It then turns to a discussion of some aspects of the legal system that undermines health justice: the shortcomings of the various branches of government as they carry out their roles in population health; certain health-harming legal doctrine; the lack of a human rights focus in U.S. law and policy; and the limits of anti-discrimination law. The course then explores both structural inequality and the unique health injustices suffered by several different historically disadvantaged populations. Finally, students will analyze the key elements of a more robust health justice agenda, including efforts underway and efforts not yet fully realized. Throughout the course, students will have the opportunity to practice activism skills around structural inequalities and health disparities.
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