Our recent Companis Connects education and professional development presentation featured the latest findings of research and stories shared by African-Americans in our state. The report, “And So We Press On,” researched and coordinated by Companis partner agency Byrd Barr Place, builds on existing research and shares realities, such as these statistics: 95% of those surveyed have experienced being treated unfairly due to race or ethnicity; 23% of our Black neighbors aged 18 – 64 do not have health insurance, compared to 19% of the overall population in that age range; and 60% of Black children live in economic hardship, compared to 39% of kids overall.
The Connects was our first webinar format, and the video can be accessed here. This September 25, 2020, presentation featured Andrea Caupain Sanderson, CEO of Byrd Barr Place, and report researcher and author Angela Powell, of Imago, LLC. “Most people reported, ‘I don’t feel like I have access to a culturally competent (provider),” says Powell, about just one of the key issues facing Black residents seeking healthcare. The webinar welcomed 70 participants, and features their questions, each answered by the presenters.
“And So We Press On” is available for download at the Byrd Barr Place website (or through the first link on this write-up). This important work was co-sponsored by the Urban League of Metropolitan Seattle, and the Washington State Commission on African-American Affairs.
Companis thanks our placements at Byrd Barr Place, including Companis Worker Molly Angel, and former placements Cynthia Hunter and Sumeet Pamma, for their recent service. And, thank you, Byrd Barr Place for all you bring to our community, and for our collaboration!