The Needham Diversity Initiative invites you to join a virtual discussion of Under the Skin: The Hidden Toll of Racism on American Lives and on the Health of Our Nation by Linda Villarosa on Thursday, March 2 at 7 pm via Zoom. Journalist Villarosa expands on her 2018 groundbreaking New York Times article regarding maternal health and infant mortality of women of color in this relatable and accessible book. Blending history and people’s lived experiences, Linda Villarosa helps the reader understand how even today’s current medical system is burdened by myth and misrepresentation. Did you know the ubiquitous oximeters used to measure blood oxygen saturation utilize technology that is impacted by melatonin level? This is one example of health care practices that have led to disparities of care between whites and people of color. Named one of the ten best books of 2022 by the New York Times, Under the Skin is a must read for anyone who participates in our healthcare system, as either a practitioner or consumer (i.e. all of us).
This event is co-sponsored by the Trustees of the Needham Free Public Library, the Needham Diversity Initiative, and the Needham Human Rights Committee.
Copies of the book (in physical and digital formats) are available at the Library. You may borrow the book through regular channels or pick up a copy for you to read/share/keep at the Reference Desk.
Please join us to listen, learn, and/or contribute your experience. If you have particular expertise in this area and would like to more formally participate in the event, please let me know so that we may include you in our planning.
