Why the #POCLWD Summit is for everybody...

If you haven't heard by now, I am co-hosting the People of COLOR Living with Diabetes Virtual Summit.

One question we have been getting a lot is...

...Why host a diabetes summit just for people of color? 

Well...first of all, it's not a diabetes summit just for people of color.  In fact, the POCLWD Virtual Summit is for everyone. But to answer your question, WHY NOT?

According to the 2020 National Diabetes Statistics Report, the prevalence of diagnosed diabetes is highest among communities of color.

· American Indians/Alaska Natives (14.7%)

· Hispanics (12.5%)

· Blacks (11.7%)

· Asians (9.2%)

· Whites (7.5%)

People of color are disproportionately affected by institutional and systemic racism.

People of color have higher rates of both diagnosed and undiagnosed diabetes.

People of color have the worst health outcomes due to inequalities in healthcare.

People of color lack of access to supportive diabetes care and education. 

People of color lack representation from people that look like them and can identify with what they experience as someone living with diabetes.

THIS. IS. WHY.

The POCLWD Summit is not intended to be an exclusive event, but it is tailored to those most affected by diabetes and with the least access to resources.  

The first of its kind, the goal of the POCLWD Virtual Summit is to provide education, resources, empowerment, and community among black and brown people living with, and managing prediabetes, type one diabetes, and type two diabetes. 

Our allies are also invited to be a part of these conversations, in fact we need you to be there! The theme for this year's summit is Diversity, Inclusion, Community: Saving Your Seat at the Table and it takes place August 3rd-6th. Hope to see you there.

Register for the Summit here