As nationwide protests continue over the death of George Floyd, a Black man who was killed when a white Minneapolis police officer kneeled on his neck last month, Ohio is trying to declare racism a public health emergency.

Other jurisdictions are exploring similar declarations, but if this measure is successful, Ohio would be the first state in the country to name systemic racism as a public health emergency.

Ohio must address racism by developing policy to address racial equity to protect all Ohioans, not just certain people, said State Rep. Juanita Brent (D-Cleveland). There are racial disparities in healthcare, housing, workforce development, and every fabric of our system. That is why we must continue to stand together, let our voices be heard, and fight just as our ancestors did.

Ohios resolution identical versions of which will be introduced in the Ohio House and the Senate calls for commitment to 11 actions, including education to address and dismantle racism; promoting and encouraging all policies that prioritize the health of people of color; and securing the resources needed.

Racism is a pervasive social outrage, one that touches every area of racialized peoples lives, especially Black and Indigenous people. Police brutality, environmental racism, and the psychological toll of racial aggression are all health issues.

Revolutions are not a one-time event, Brent added, a sentiment that feels particularly urgent during this current uprising, as Black people risk our health during the coronavirus pandemic, fighting for our lives against a militarized police force that keeps killing us. As Brent said, the fight is far from over.