Healthcare for Humans: Recent Episodes
Kumara Raja Sundar
This show is dedicated to exploring the history and culture of Washington's diverse communities so clinicians are equipped with the right knowledge to care for all patients.
In today's episode, we have a special treat for you as we recap the North American Refugee Health Conference (NARHC) held in Calgary, Canada. This conference, hosted by the Society of Refugee Healthcare Providers, brought together healthcare professionals, researchers, and community scholars to discuss and address the unique challenges refugees and immigrants face in accessing healthcare.
Joining me today are a diverse group of guests, including Duncan Reid from the International Medicine Clinic, Rachel Talavlikar from the Mosaic Refugee Health Clinic, and representatives from the Community Scholars Program in Calgary.
Together, we will dive into
- the key themes and takeaways from the conference, ranging from respecting Indigenous voices to the power of storytelling and healing through art.
- the importance of centering community voices and restructuring power and authority
- building strong connections within our communities.
- the experiences of internationally trained physicians
- the role of research in addressing healthcare disparities
- the progress we've made in truth and reconciliation within the Canadian healthcare system
Resources:
- National Resource Center for Refugees, Immigrants, and Migrants (NRC-RIM)
- Ethnomed
- Refugee Health YYC
Timestamp:
[00:05:58] Progress in truth and reconciliation in Canada
[00:14:25] Talks contrast deep pain and healing process.
[00:19:26] Recognizing the value of internationally trained healthcare workers.
[00:22:24] Refugee review board offers research consultation.
[00:27:19] Language's power on refugee status realization.
[00:37:01] Hire diverse community scholars for successful research.
[00:39:47] Finding hope in overwhelming times is vital.
James Achuli is a refugee student studying International Relations at the University of British Columbia. He first arrived in Calgary, Canada in February 2022 as a refugee. At the immigration office, James was asked about his identity and where he came from. He shared his experiences of being born during the civil war in Sudan, growing up as an internally displaced person, and witnessing the destruction caused by war.
Despite the hardships, James was determined to receive an education and received a scholarship to further his studies. He faced another war in South Sudan in 2016, where he witnessed the death of a friend and was then taken by armed men. With the help of a kind woman, James managed to escape and joined a group of refugees walking towards safety in Uganda.
Eventually, he arrived at a refugee camp and faced the daily challenges and struggles that refugees endure. James acknowledges the difficulties faced by refugees, such as forced displacement, persecution, and lack of basic necessities. Through his experiences, he strives to shed light on the struggles faced by refugees and advocate for their rights and better opportunities.
In this episode of "Healthcare for Humans" from the North American Refugee Conference, Dr. Raj Sundar records guest Boban Sojanovic, a Serbian Canadian peace and LGBTQ+ human activist, to share his incredible journey of resilience and hope. B
Boban faced death threats in his homeland and had to flee to Canada, where he dealt with melanoma and the suicide of his father. Through poetry and therapy, Boban found healing and transformed his pain into a source of strength. Dr. Sundar emphasizes the importance of listening and bearing witness to the stories of refugees and trauma survivors while highlighting Boban's four powerful life lessons: embracing life's circumstances, celebrating personal transformation, recognizing the abundance of love and understanding in the world, and holding on to hope amidst challenges.
This episode features Dr. Suzanne Barakat, a family physician and executive director of the Health and Human Rights Initiative at the University of California, San Francisco. Dr. Barakat shares her experiences and expertise in working with refugees, asylum seekers, and stateless persons, shedding light on the terminology, history, and challenges these marginalized communities face. She emphasizes the importance of storytelling to create empathy and change, discussing the emotional toll on storytellers and encouraging listeners to reflect on their own perceptions. The episode also addresses actionable steps that individuals can take to support refugees and marginalized communities.
- Watch the White Helmet documentary on Netflix
- Listen to the Reveal podcast to dive deeper
- Support the Health and Human Rights Initiative and Society of Refugee Healthcare Providers
- Get trained Asylum Medicine Training Initiative, or AMTI, trains clinicians how to do forensic medical evaluations.
Aliyah Haq is an experienced registered dietitian with a career spanning 25 years. As the former president of Nutrition First, a prominent public health organization, she spearheaded a nationwide program emphasizing the importance of holistic nutrition education.
In this episode of "Healthcare for Humans," host Dr. Raj Sundar and guest Aliyah Haq delve into the topic of culturally sensitive nutrition counseling. They stress the importance of building trust and understanding with patients, acknowledging the significance of food in their lives. The speakers share personal stories and experiences, highlighting the power of trust in making a difference in patients' health. They discuss the different approaches to nutrition advice depending on culture and emphasize the need to tailor recommendations to fit individual food habits and preferences. The episode also explores the challenges and strategies in pediatric nutrition counseling, particularly in addressing childhood obesity. Listeners are encouraged to embrace their cultural food traditions while making positive changes for chronic diseases and promoting health and physical activity in children.
[00:05:01] Conversation, not commands, for effective communication.
[00:06:56] Culture influences food choices, including religious practices.
[00:10:05] Food choice impacts well-being, self-control, and satisfaction.
[00:13:19] Culture impacts portion sizes. Ask about eating habits.
[00:18:10] You control your body; take care.
[00:21:43] Pediatric nutrition strategy: cultural differences and obesity.
[00:27:12] Patient food history guides friendly, rapport-building conversations.
[00:32:05] Trusting dietitians with patients' health is crucial.
[00:35:12] Challenging situation leads to successful trust-building.
Join me, Dr. Raj Sundar, and my colleague Maha Razzaki, as we navigate the complex terrain of cultural competence, humility, and safety in healthcare. Listen in as we delve into the differences between these concepts and their impact on providing culturally responsive care. Maha shares her experiences as a Program Manager for a Member Equity, Inclusion, and Diversity Program, and we discuss the importance of listening to diverse community voices to build meaningful connections.
In this discussion, we take an in-depth look at cultural humility, a practice that can move us beyond cultural competency. We discuss the model minority myth and its erasure effect on the challenges that Asian Americans face. We also talk about understanding the power dynamics between clinicians and patients and how cultural humility can help build rapport.
We also examine the complexities of identity and discuss the role of cultural safety in healthcare. Lastly, we touch on the difficulty of speaking up against a power dynamic in healthcare and why it's crucial to recognize and appreciate one another's contributions to the healthcare system.
(0:00:00) - Cultural Competence and Humility in Healthcare (10 Minutes)
We explore the differences between cultural competence, cultural humility, cultural safety and the dizzying number of terms to define culturally responsive care. We also explore the layers of identity we all hold and how to redefine these concepts to serve our needs better. Maha Rezaki joins me to discuss her journey of becoming a Program Manager for a Member Equity, Inclusion and Diversity Program. We also talk about the importance of listening to diverse community voices to understand them better and build more meaningful connections.
(0:09:34) - Cultural Competency and Cultural Humility (9 Minutes)
We discuss how cultural humility is a practice that moves us beyond cultural competency. We explore the array of terms used to define culturally responsive care and the importance of centering diverse communities' voices and lived experiences. Additionally, we examine how the model minority myth can lead to erasure and invisibility of struggles that Asian Americans face and how to ask questions to get to the root of an issue.
(0:18:23) - Understanding Identity and Cultural Sensitivity (13 Minutes)
We explore the concept of identity, discussing how each of us holds an individual, group, and collective identity. The importance of understanding different cultural backgrounds, the power dynamics between clinicians and patients, and how cultural humility can help build rapport are discussed. Additionally, the concept of patterns and power in the context of cultural safety is explored.
(0:31:22) - Stereotypes and Growth in Clinical Settings (3 Minutes)
We investigate the effects of stereotypes on individuals and the implications for clinicians and their patients. We consider the challenges of creating a safe environment where patients feel comfortable to speak up about their experiences and explore how cultural humility can help foster a culture of open feedback and growth. Additionally, we explore the complexities of identity and the importance of understanding the differences between individual, group, and collective identity.
(0:34:42) - Creating Cultural Safety in Healthcare (6 Minutes)
We talk about how our sense of purpose drives us and how mindfulness of muddita and karuna can help us strive for healthcare betterment. We consider the fear of being canceled and the fear of litigation, and how they can lead to defensiveness. We explore how understanding the context of a patient's life and experiences can help to create cultural safety not only for them, but also for our colleagues. Finally, we discuss tools that can help us to foster cultural safety and...
When I first met Dr. Ponce Gonzalez, I was struck by her passion for the Latinx community and her dedication to making a difference in their lives. In today's episode, I had the privilege of sitting down with her to discuss the unique challenges Latina workers face in the healthcare system and the complexities of the Latinx community. As the founder and executive director of the Community Health Worker Coalition for Migrants and Refugees, Dr. Ponce shared her story of being born in Nicaragua, the importance of education, and the impact accents have on Latinas in the professional world.
We delved into the power dynamic between doctors and patients and the concept of being proximate to understand better and support marginalized communities. Dr. Ponce emphasized the crucial role of establishing trust and connection between clinicians and patients, especially for Latinx communities who are often undocumented or face various healthcare access barriers. We also explored how the current system can lead to a health crisis for both documented and undocumented Latinx individuals.
Lastly, we touched on the need for tailored care models and language support for the Latinx community, and the incredible value of a community health worker familiar with the culture and able to provide peer support. I challenge all of our listeners to actively work against any biases, including language or accent bias, and strive to create inclusive workplaces where every voice is heard and respected. Join us in this important conversation and learn from Dr. Ponce Gonzalez's insight and experience as we work together to improve healthcare access and equity for the Latinx community.
--------- EPISODE CHAPTERS WITH SHORT KEY POINTS ---------
(0:00:01) - Caring for Undocumented Latinx Communities (14 Minutes)
We explore the complexities of the Latina community and the unique challenges Latina workers face in the healthcare system. How can community health workers bridge the gap in healthcare access? What is our moral obligation to care for one another? We discuss the concept of being proximate and how it can help us understand the experiences of those who are marginalized and excluded from society. Dr Ponce Gonzales, the founder and executive director of the Community Health Worker Coalition for Migrants and Refugees, shares her story of being born in Nicaragua and the importance of getting an education. We also talk about the impact of accents in the Latina community and how it often leads to people disregarding or challenging their expertise and knowledge. Finally, I challenge listeners to actively work to counteract any bias, including language or accent bias, and to establish an environment where every voice is heard and respected in their workplace.
(0:13:57) - Relationships in Healthcare Disparities (11 Minutes)
We examine the effects of a hierarchical power structure where people obey doctors without question. We emphasize the significance of forming a bond between the clinician and the patient and the necessity of context-based cultures to enable this relationship. We also analyze the system's impact on documented and undocumented Latinx communities and how this can lead to a health crisis.
(0:24:50) - Latinx Workers and Health Challenges (7 Minutes)
We discuss the challenges faced by Latinx workers and the difficulty they have accessing resources. We look at how the power structure of the healthcare system can lead to exploitation and humiliation. We explore how the exploitation of migrant workers can lead to criminalizing their status, even when they are not criminals. We consider the importance of providing support to Latina mothers facing perinatal depression and how this can benefit their children. Lastly, we examine the unique set of challenges construction workers face and how this relates to the Latinx...
How can we make sense of suffering and create meaning in our lives through illness narratives? Join us as we welcome our special guest Odette, a family medicine physician who specializes in caring for the Latinx community, particularly undocumented individuals. In this captivating conversation, Odette shares her personal experiences with illness narratives in Guatemala and how this approach has shaped her practice in medicine.
We dive into the complexities of providing care for undocumented individuals, exploring the importance of relationship-building with the Latinx community. Odette shares insights on how to talk about intimate partner violence with patients who are undocumented and how Susto, a cultural belief in the cause of illness, plays a part in their understanding of their disease. Together, we uncover valuable strategies for providing culturally responsive care in these challenging situations.
Lastly, we discuss the realities of caring for undocumented patients and how medical professionals can advocate for them on both an individual and system level. Odette emphasizes the need for cultivating hope as an art and skill, and reminds us that even if we may not feel like we are making system-level change, our work can still make a difference for a single patient. Don't miss this thought-provoking and heartwarming conversation on illness narratives and the intricacies of caring for the undocumented Latinx community.
--------- EPISODE CHAPTERS ---------
(0:00:00) - Culture and Health Narratives
(0:16:25) - Illness Narratives and Undocumented Healthcare
(0:25:45) - Undocumented Mothers' Fear and Healthcare Access
(0:31:11) - Building Trust and Safety in Healthcare
(0:43:53) - Advocacy for Undocumented Patients
(0:47:33) - Medical Advocacy and Activism
--------- EPISODE CHAPTERS WITH SHORT KEY POINTS ---------
(0:00:00) - Culture and Health Narratives
Odette discusses illness narratives, Susto, and intimate partner violence with undocumented patients.
(0:16:25) - Illness Narratives and Undocumented Healthcare
Odette shares her experience with illness narratives, creating a space for someone to tell their story, and the importance of relationship building with the Latinx community.
(0:25:45) - Undocumented Mothers' Fear and Healthcare Access
Undocumented mothers, cultural barriers, language barriers, sexism, pathways to citizenship, legal benefits, medical education, and creating safe spaces are discussed.
(0:31:11) - Building Trust and Safety in Healthcare
Odette shares strategies to build trusting relationships, normalize conversation, create a safe space, acknowledge documentation status without judgement, and avoid writing sensitive information.
(0:43:53) - Advocacy for Undocumented Patients
Odette advocates for undocumented patients, building trusting relationships to ensure they receive care.
(0:47:33) - Medical Advocacy and Activism
Odette emphasizes cultivating hope, advocating for healthcare on a personal level, and making a difference for one patient.
Join us for an insightful conversation with Tagoipah, a second-generation Cham refugee from the greater Seattle area. Tagoipah shares the important distinction between refugees and immigrants and how their families and community were forced to flee Southeast Asia during the Vietnam War and the Khmer Rouge era. We also explore the rich history and identity of the Cham people, an indigenous minority group from Southeast Asia, and how their long history has been shaped by various empires and assimilation.
Listen in as we discuss the intersectionality of Cham identity, particularly how being a minority within another minority group can shape one's experience. Tagoipahshares their upbringing in a diverse community in South Seattle, surrounded by East African, Somali, and Asian communities, and how that allowed them to connect with their culture. We also examine the power dynamics in various communities and the importance of understanding and acknowledging our history.
This episode delves into the challenges of navigating the healthcare system as a Cham refugee and the cultural gap between healthcare providers and the Cham community. We explore the crucial role of interpreters in bridging this gap and the need for teaching patients to ask questions and seek second opinions. Finally, we touch upon the impact of cultural crossover in diverse communities and the importance of honoring autonomy when it comes to identity. Join us for this enlightening and engaging discussion with Tagoipahabout the Cham community, identity, and navigating the complexities of healthcare and social justice.
--------- EPISODE CHAPTERS ---------
- Cham Refugees and Charm People
- Cham Identity and Erasure
- Navigating Intersectional Identity
- Identity, Power, and Cham Tradition
- Traditional Cham Wedding and Community Contributions
- Navigating Healthcare as a Refugee
- Cultural Interpretation of Health
- Improving Cultural Understanding in Healthcare
- Healthcare and Social Justice
- Recognizing Cultural Crossover in Communities
--------- EPISODE CHAPTERS WITH SHORT KEY POINTS ---------
Cham Refugees and Charm People
I discuss my identity as a Cham refugee, the difference between refugees and immigrants, and Cham's history.
Cham Identity and Erasure
Cham people are a minority in Vietnam, Cambodia, and Malaysia, combining Islam with traditional beliefs; the identity of a second-generation refugee; knowledge is key to understanding cultural identity.
Navigating Intersectional Identity
Growing up in a diverse South Seattle community, I experienced how minority identity shapes one's identity.
Identity, Power, and Cham Tradition
Autonomy, minority within a minority, Ethiopian community, Asian Muslims, and oppression of communities of color were discussed.
Traditional Cham Wedding and Community Contributions
Cham culture's weddings, food, clothing, and hijabs are a blend of Southeast Asian and Islamic cultures.
Navigating Healthcare as a Refugee
Navigating healthcare as a Cham refugee, advocating for family, and reliance on technology are discussed.
Cultural Interpretation of Health
Bridge cultural gap between healthcare providers and Cham community, understand patient's interpretation of health, language barriers, holistic health, autonomy, and identity.
Improving Cultural Understanding in Healthcare
Interpreters bridge cultural gap between healthcare providers and Cham patients, respecting cultural identity, specific language, and power dynamics.
Healthcare and Social Justice
Autonomy, beliefs, empowering patients, and Cham culture are discussed to bridge the healthcare provider-patient gap.
Recognizing Cultural Crossover in Communities
We discuss Asian community diversity, cultural changes, bridging cultural gaps, and honoring autonomy in identity.
Next Steps:
- Sign up on Healthcare for Humans website to join our community
- Subscribe and share this episode to help clinicians care for diverse communities better
- Check us out on Instagram: @healthcareforhumanspodcast
In this episode, we dive deep into the Afro-Latino Latinx identity, as experienced by Sandra Huber from Panama to the United States, where her identity shifted from being simply Panamanian to being labeled as Hispanic, Latina, and eventually Afro-Latina.
We discuss the challenges of navigating racial and coloristic oppression within Indian and Latin American communities, as well as within broader American society. We also touch on the importance of acknowledging and accepting one's blackness and the complex racial dynamics that exist within the community.
We explore the experiences of being Afro-Latina in predominantly white neighborhoods and the impact on mental health. Sandra shares her personal encounters with racial profiling and the assumptions made about her by some white community members.
We also discuss the Hispanic paradox, which does not apply to Afro-Latinos, and the need for healthcare providers to be more culturally aware and curious about their patients' backgrounds.
Finally, we delve into the power of intentional curiosity, particularly in the medical field. Being open to asking questions and avoiding assumptions can lead to better care and more accurate diagnoses. This conversation emphasizes the need for empathy and genuine interest in the diverse backgrounds of patients.
Join us as we explore the complexities of Afro-Latino Latinx identity and the importance of understanding and embracing one's unique heritage.
Chapters:
(0:00:07) - Afro Latino Identity
(0:17:00) - Navigating Racial and Coloristic Oppression
(0:25:49) - Navigating Discrimination
(0:35:12) - Acknowledging Afro-Latino Identity in Healthcare
(0:50:45) - The Power of Intentional Curiosity
Chapter Summaries:
(0:00:07) - Afro Latino Identity (17 Minutes)
In this podcast episode, we explore the Afro-Latino Latinx identity through the experiences of Sandra Solano Huer, who was born and raised in Panama City, Panama. Sandra discusses her journey from Panama to the United States, where her identity shifted from being simply Panamanian to being labeled as Hispanic, Latina, and eventually Afro-Latina. She shares her experiences with people asking "what are you?" and how she navigates these questions with patience and understanding.
(0:17:00) - Navigating Racial and Coloristic Oppression (9 Minutes)
In this part of the conversation, we delve into the impact of colorism and racial dynamics within the Indian and Latin American communities, as well as within broader American society. The discussion touches on personal experiences of feeling excluded or treated differently due to skin color, as well as the implications of marrying someone lighter-skinned for upward mobility and safety. We also explore how racism and colorism can affect mental and physical health, and the importance of being aware of these issues to make informed decisions about one's identity and life choices'
(0:25:49) - Navigating Discrimination (9 Minutes)
We discuss the challenges and intricacies of embracing black identity within the Latino community and the various terms used to describe mixed ancestry. We also touch on how black identity does not contradict Latino identity and how the Afro-Latino population faces higher rates of poverty and discrimination compared to other Latino groups. Through personal anecdotes, we explore the importance of acknowledging and accepting one's blackness and the complex racial dynamics that exist within the community
(0:35:12) - Acknowledging Afro-Latino Identity in Healthcare (16 Minutes)
In this portion of the episode, we examine the experiences of being Afro-Latina in predominantly white neighborhoods and the impact on mental health. Sandra shares her personal encounters with racial profiling and the assumptions made about her by some white community members. We also explore the Hispanic paradox, which does not apply to Afro-Latinos, and discuss the need for healthcare providers to be more culturally aware and curious about their patients' backgrounds. Sandra emphasizes the importance of asking questions and developing relationships with community members, as well as advocating for oneself within the healthcare system'
(0:50:45) - The Power of Intentional Curiosity (1 Minutes)
We explore the importance of curiosity and intentionality in understanding people's identities, particularly in the medical field. Being open to asking questions and avoiding assumptions can lead to better care and more accurate diagnoses. Despite the limited time in a medical appointment, knowing what to ask and being prepared can make a significant difference in providing personalized care. This conversation emphasizes the need for empathy and genuine interest in the diverse backgrounds of patients'
In this episode, I share the inspiring journey of Dr. Duran, a family medicine resident who immigrated to the US from Mexico at the age of 14. Despite facing obstacles such as being undocumented and not having a Social Security number, Dr. Duran pursued higher education with the help of supportive individuals like her high school teacher, Mrs. Holland. We delve into the challenges Dr. Duran faced in financing her medical education and navigating the DACA program, as well as the impact it has on her mental health and career. We also discuss the importance of being curious and respectful when interacting with colleagues who may have experiences related to DACA. Join me in this thought-provoking conversation that sheds light on the resilience and determination of DACA recipients like Dr. Duran, who continue to contribute to their communities and the healthcare profession.
Chapters:
(0:00:00) - Achieving a Career in Medicine
(0:13:44) - Navigating DACA and Med School
(0:25:51) - DACA Impact on Mental Health
(0:34:48) - DACA's Mental Health Impact
(0:42:08) - Be Curious and Respectful of Colleagues
Chapter Summaries:
(0:00:00) - Achieving a Career in Medicine (14 Minutes)
In this podcast episode, we discuss the journey of Dr. Duran, a family medicine resident who immigrated to the US from Mexico at the age of 14. Despite facing obstacles such as not having a Social Security number and being undocumented, Dr. Duran pursued higher education with the help of supportive individuals like her high school teacher, Mrs. Holland. Dr. Duran's interest in medicine was sparked by witnessing the health disparities in Southeast Georgia, particularly among the immigrant community.
(0:13:44) - Navigating DACA and Med School (12 Minutes)
We delve into the challenges faced by Dr. Duran in financing her medical education due to her immigration status and limited financial resources. Through persistence and support from organizations like the Resurrection Project, she was able to obtain a loan and attend medical school. We also discuss the uncertainty and stress surrounding the renewal of her DACA status, which directly impacts her ability to continue her residency and work as a doctor. Despite these obstacles, Dr. Duran remains determined to excel in her profession and contribute to her community as a family medicine physician'
(0:25:51) - DACA Impact on Mental Health (9 Minutes)
We explore the impact of the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program on Dr. Duran's life and career, allowing her to fulfill her intellectual goals and become a doctor. The conversation also addresses the anxiety and vulnerability faced by DACA recipients due to the program's uncertain future and the fact that the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services has all their personal information. Dr. Duran discusses her decision to be open and vocal about her immigration status, as well as the intergenerational effects of policies like DACA on recipients' children.
(0:34:48) - DACA's Mental Health Impact (7 Minutes)
We examine the history and limitations of the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program and its effects on recipients like Dr. Duran. With over 800,000 DACA recipients and 1.3 million people living with a DACA recipient in the United States, the consequences of ending the program would be far-reaching. Despite providing temporary relief, DACA has significant constraints, such as no clear path to citizenship, limited travel permissions, and challenges in obtaining mortgages. Additionally, since July 2021, no new DACA applications have been accepted, and processing times for renewals can cause applicants to lose their status.
(0:42:08) - Be Curious and Respectful of Colleagues (1 Minute)
We emphasize the importance of curiosity and humility when interacting with colleagues who may have experiences related to the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program. By listening to and learning from their stories, we can gain valuable insight and foster a more supportive and understanding healthcare community. Remember to approach these conversations with respect and genuine interest in their experiences, rather than simply satisfying personal curiosity
Next Steps:
- Sign up on Healthcare for Humans website to join our community
- Subscribe and share this episode to help clinicians care for diverse communities better
- Check us out on Instagram: @healthcareforhumanspodcast
In this episode of Healthcare for Humans, we talked to Dr. Garcia again and delve into the often-overlooked history of Mexican immigration in the United States and its connection to the labor market. From desperate times to discriminatory attitudes, we uncover the complex story of Mexican immigrants and their contributions to the country's workforce. We explore the structural causes that have shaped their history and highlight the need for accessible, safe, and responsive healthcare for all communities.
- Explain the historical roots of Mexico, including its indigenous civilizations and colonization by Hernan Cortes, leading to its independence from Spain in 1821.
- Discuss the impact of the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo in 1848, which resulted in Mexicans suddenly living in the US due to land becoming part of the US.
- Review various programs and events encouraging Mexican immigration to the US from the 1840s to the 1960s, including the Bracero program and the Mexican Revolution.
- Explore the portrayal of Mexicans in the media and politicization of immigration, highlighting the rich history and contributions of Mexicans to society, and the unique experiences of Mexican Americans and other Latino groups in the US.
Next Steps:
- Sign up on Healthcare for Humans website to join our community
- Subscribe and share this episode to help clinicians care for diverse communities better
- Follow Raj on Twitter
Dr. Jerry Garcia is a professor at Texas Christian University with expertise in teaching Chicano/Latino Studies, US History, and Mexican History. He was previously the Vice President for Educational Programs at Sea Mar Museum, where he curated the new Sea Mar Museum of Chicano/a/Latino/a Culture in Seattle, WA. His deep commitment to promoting education, diversity, and inclusion has made a positive impact on the educational landscape and beyond.
Daniel Joaquin Padron is a Community Health Educator in Spokane, WA. As a first-generation college graduate with a degree in Public Health, he is passionate about promoting health equity and social justice for underserved communities. He has experience working with low socioeconomic status populations and resettling refugees.
After listening to this episode you will be able to:
- Explain the experience of growing up in a small town and the challenges of navigating identity
- Describe the historical roots of the terms Hispanic, Latino, Latinx, and Chicano and how they evolved over time
- List the different factors that contribute to the use of certain terminology, including politics, culture, and personal preference
- Review how the terms reflect self-determination and autonomy in defining one's own identity
- Explore the intersectionality of identity and the importance of recognizing and respecting diverse experiences within the Hispanic/Latinx community
- Discuss the implications of using certain terminology in society and the importance of staying informed and culturally sensitive.
Next Steps:
- Sign up on Healthcare for Humans website to join our community
- Subscribe and share this episode to help clinicians care for diverse communities better
- Follow Raj on Twitter
Born and raised predominantly in San Diego, California, Dr. Denise Yu completed undergraduate and medical degrees in her hometown. After graduating, she was eager to start her career in family medicine and found her home in the Pacific Northwest after moving to Seattle.
Her passion for medicine stems from a personal experience as a child when she fell ill and was hospitalized. Unfortunately, the medical professionals failed to communicate with her parents in a language they could understand, leaving them feeling lost and confused. This experience instilled in Dr. Denise Yu the importance of clear and effective communication in healthcare, and now she is dedicated to providing her patients and their families with the information they need to make informed healthcare decisions.
After listening to this, you will be able to
- Explain the origins and historical context of the model minority myth
- Describe the problematic components of the model minority myth, including the ways in which it perpetuates harmful stereotypes and erases the experiences of marginalized Asian American communities
- List the impacts of the model minority myth, including its role in upholding systems of oppression and hindering efforts toward achieving equity and justice for Asian Americans
- Understand how the model minority myth has affected the mental health of individuals such as Dr. Denise Yu, who have experienced the pressure to conform to the myth's expectations, and how this has led to feelings of anxiety, depression, and disconnection from their cultural identity
- Review how the perpetuation of the model minority myth can affect the health of Asian American patients, including how it can impact their access to care, their perceptions of their own health, and the quality of care they receive.
Next Steps:
- Sign up on Healthcare for Humans website to join our community
- Subscribe and share this episode to help clinicians care for diverse communities better
- Follow Raj on Twitter
Ron Chew is an activist and changemaker. Since the mid-1970s, he has worked as editor of the International Examiner, director of the Wing Luke Museum of the Asian Pacific Experience, and as the executive director of the International Community Health Services Foundation (ICHS) for Seattle’s Chinatown International District (CID). He is currently the head of Ron Chew Communications.
After listening to this, you will be able to
- Explain the idea of “immigrant sorrow”
- Describe immigrant experiences that generate feelings of exclusion
- List ways navigating dual identities (ie immigrant and American) can be distressful and how generations of immigrants hide in the “shadows” due to fear
- Name ways to build community resiliency and support community health by building a sense of belonging
Next Steps:
- Sign up on Healthcare for Humans website to join our community
- Subscribe and share this episode to help clinicians care for diverse communities better
- Follow Raj on Twitter
Ruolan Liu is a primary care physician who was born in Chengdu, China and immigrated to Portland, Oregon, with her parents when she was 9 years old. She spent the next two decades falling in love with the community, the people, and the rhythms of the Pacific Northwest. She speaks fluent Mandarin Chinese.
After listening to this, you will be able to:
- Explain the different types of Chinese cuisine
- Describe the idea of “food as medicine”
- Specify how you can incorporate patients' community knowledge into the care plan
- List ways patient expectations differ due to their experience with healthcare in their home country
- Identify how Chinese culture can impact care recommendations
- Name ways to incorporate traditional Chinese medicine into your care plan
Next Steps:
- Sign up on Healthcare for Humans website to join our community
- Subscribe and share this episode to help clinicians care for diverse communities better
- Follow Raj on Twitter
Dr. Connie So joins us today to talk about the history of the Chinese American history. Dr. Connie So, an immigrant from Hong Kong, grew up in Seattle’s Beacon Hill neighborhood. She has taught at UC Berkeley, UC Davis and Princeton University and the University of Washington. Since 1992, she has taught at the University of Washington’s American Ethnic Studies Department where she is a Professor of Teaching and the Supervisor of the Department’s Community Practicum and Internship. She is active with the Seattle Asian Pacific American community and currently serving as the President of OCA (formerly the Organization of Chinese Americans) – Greater Seattle
In this conversation, you will
- Identify where most Chinese Americans are from (ie. what part of China)
- List the reasons why the Chinese community immigrated to the US
- Explain how the model minority is problematic for Chinese Americans and the ways US discriminated through policies and laws against the Chinese Americans
- Define what acculturation means for the Chinese community
- Hear how traditional medicine can heal better than western medicine at times
Next Steps:
- Sign up on Healthcare for Humans website to join our community
- Subscribe and share this episode to help clinicians care for diverse communities better
- Follow Raj on Twitter
This is Part II of our conversation on the Cambodian community with Jennifer Huong, a DSHS-certified Khmer interpreter and one of the founders of the Khmer Health Board Member. She was born in Kampong Cham, raised in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, escaped to Thailand refugee camps in 1981 and resettled in Salem, Oregon in mid-July 1983. She has been advocating for the community for the last 30 years as a Cultural Mediator/Caseworker and Medical Interpreter.
In this conversation, you will
- Understand how unprocessed trauma manifests
- Hear how the lack of community spaces can lead to further isolation
- Learn how a complex healthcare system can undermine the care that clinicians are trying to provide and what it means to listen and ask about items not on the initial “agenda”
Next Steps:
- Sign up on Healthcare for Humans website to join our community
- Subscribe and share this episode to help clinicians care for diverse communities better
- Follow Raj on Twitter
Part I of our conversation on the Cambodian community with James Heng, a DSHS-certified Khmer interpreter and Khmer Health Board Member. In his free time, he organizes concerts and entertains the Khmer community in WA state.
In this conversation, you will
- Understand the trauma many Khmer hold that you likely never think about
- Learn the perils of using a family or staff for interpreting without thinking twice
- Hear why there's such a stigma around mental health or being open to a diagnosis of mental health disorder
- We also cover food, substance use and traditional practice
Next Steps:
- Sign up on Healthcare for Humans website to join our community
- Subscribe and share this episode to help clinicians care for diverse communities better
- Follow Raj on Twitter
This is part II of our conversation with Dr. Avantika Waring. Avantika is an Endocrinologist focusing on caring for people living with diabetes. She has worked with patients in various clinical settings for over 15 years and is currently the Chief Medical Officer at 9amHealth. Her clinical passion is the development of technology-enabled care delivery models that are equitable and culturally inclusive. She is originally from New Jersey but has lived on the west coast since 2009 and currently resides in Seattle, Washington. When she’s not at work, you can find her on the soccer sidelines watching her three kids, running and hiking the nearby trails, and skiing local mountains in the winter.
In part II, we dig deeper into several topics:
- Important aspects of nutrition counseling: rice, lentils, ghee
- The extremely uncertain science of glycemic index when it comes to rice
- Not focusing on specific components of food but highlighting what people are eating and rebalancing rather than replacing food
- Beliefs around health
- Decision-making with family
- The importance of assertiveness when giving health recommendations, shared decision making health
- The stigma around mental health, how to approach that
Next Steps:
- Review episode takeaways and a full transcript and visit the website
- Follow Raj on Twitter and follow his blog No-Parachutes
- Email us at healthcareforhumans@yahoo.com
Amy Bhatt, Ph.D. is a writer, educator, and content creator. She received her B.A. in Political Science and Women’s Studies from Emory University and her Ph.D. in Feminist Studies from the University of Washington in Seattle, WA.
She is the author of High-Tech Housewives: Indian IT Workers, Gendered Labor, and Transmigration (University of Washington Press, 2018) and co-author of Roots and Reflections: South Asians in the Pacific Northwest (University of Washington Press, 2013) with Dr. Nalini Iyer.
As a public historian, she coordinated the South Asian Oral History Project at UW and currently serves on the South Asian American Digital Archive’s Board of Directors. She was a researcher and guest curator at Seattle’s Museum of History and Industry (MOHAI) from 2018-2021, where she co-curated the traveling Smithsonian exhibit Beyond Bollywood: Indian Americans Shape the Nation (2019-20)
Currently, she and her writing partner, Shiwani Srivastava, have an animated feature film in development with ReelFX and a television pilot in development with Gunpowder & Sky.
In today's conversation, we talk about:
- Definition of India
- Castes
- The History of India
- The History of Indian Immigration to India
- First wave: 1800s to 1920s, Sikh and Punjabi immigrants (1917-1952: dead period immigration)
- Second Wave: 1965-1980, educated, higher-income immigrants
- Third Wave: 1980-1990s, diverse backgrounds, including small businesses owners
- Fourth Wave: 1990s, immigration to work in the tech industry
- Prejudice and Discrimination
- The case of Bhagad Thind
- The Model Minority Myth
- How the co-existence of culture with historical, economic, and social advantages contributes to the model minority myth
Next Steps:
- Review episode takeaways and a full transcript and visit the website
- Follow Raj on Twitter and follow his blog No-Parachutes
- Email us at healthcareforhumans@yahoo.com
This is part II of our conversation with Joseph Seia. Joseph is the Co-Executive Director of the National Association of Pasifika Organizations (NAOPO) and the founder of PICA-WA (Pacific Islander Community Association of Washington). To hear the introduction to this topic and the full guest intro, please listen to the previous episode.
In part II, we dig deeper into several topics:
- decades of erasure and policy that have led to health disparities like the high rate of police killings ad homelessness
- his focus on organizing and gaining the power to make changes in governmental policy
- programs that PICA-WA offers, such as the cultural weavers program to support their elders and offer a space of dignity and connection, and the youth wayfinders program that offers an intergenerational space that helps youth thrive
- Joseph's identity as fa' fa fine and what we can learn about gender identity from the Samoan culture
- The importance of the messenger as well as the message when communicating about health to the community
- the consequences of viewing someone as just a fat body that needs to lose weight and not acknowledging their humanity
Next Steps:
- Review episode takeaways and a full transcript and visit the website
- Follow Raj on Twitter and follow his blog No-Parachutes
- Email us at healthcareforhumans@yahoo.com
Joseph Seia is the Co-Executive Director of the National Association of Pasifika Organizations (NAOPO) and the founder of PICA-WA (Pacific Islander Community Association of Washington). He has 15 years of experience in direct service, youth development work, and nonprofit leadership & administration. He labors against the political erasure of Native Hawaiian & Pacific Islander (NH/PI) communities in data and policy by re-envisioning what it means for Pasifikans to feel cultural belonging in the U.S. Diaspora.
In Part 1 of this conversation, we talk about
- Melanesia
- how unhealthy food is dumped in pacific island market, affecting their health
- the idea that pacific islanders are primarily a black race and how anti-blackness has infiltrated the community
- Micronesia
- the harms of Japanese and us colonialism and COFA, Compact of Free Associations
- the targeted recruitment of Pacific Islanders for food factories to avoid immigration barriers
- the poisoning of the environment through nuclear waste plants and climate justice champions fighting this violation
- Polynesia
- the concern of viewing islands' existence as entertainment for Asian and American tourists
- how Christianity was Samoanized when it arrived, emphasizing the idea of holding multiple beliefs in contrast to western society's belief that things can’t coexist
- Joseph’s favorite food
Next Steps:
- Review episode takeaways and a full transcript and visit the website
- Follow Raj on Twitter and follow his blog No-Parachutes
- Email us at healthcareforhumans@yahoo.com
This is part II of our conversation with Ahmed Ali about Somalis in Washington. To hear the introduction to this topic and the full guest intro, please listen to the previous episode. Ahmed Ali is a pharmacist by profession and the executive director of the Somali Health Board.
In Part II of this conversation, we talk about what to be aware of during a patient encounter like naming and traditional clothing, we cover counseling about nutrition in a culturally appropriate way, review a common supplement used in the community, being careful about complimenting too much and brining on the evil eye and the numerous programs that the Somali Health Board runs to care for the community.
Ahmed Ali is a pharmacist by profession, one of the founders and the current executive director of the Somali Health Board (SHB), a nonprofit organization that works to address health disparities within the Somali/East African community.
He is an active member within the Somali community, with emphasis on immigrant/refugee health issues both locally and abroad. He also serves on diverse boards, including the King County Immigrant/Refugee Task Force, city of Seattle's Sweetened Beverages Community Advisory Board, as well as the Fred Hutchinson Health Disparities Community Advisory Board. Along with the SHB team, Dr. Ali is also a recipient of the 2016 Molina Healthcare’s Community Champions Award.
Today, in Part 1 of this conversation, we talk about the history of Somalia including the Somali Bantu population, the importance of understanding important holidays in Islam like Ramadan and how to counsel patients during this time, and of how the idea Ayuuto/hagbad, sometimes translated as mutual aid, has helped the Somali community thrive in Washington.
This is part II of our conversation with Dr. Maile Taualii about Native Hawaiians and Pacific Islanders. Please listen to the previous episode to hear the introduction to this topic and the entire guest intro. Dr. Maile Taulalii is an assistant clinical investigator for Hawaii Permanente Medical Group
In Part II of this conversation, we talk about cultural values such as aloha and hahaha, how to communicate about health in a way that matters to the patient, reconnecting with your people, talking about land trauma and respecting patient beliefs. Without delay, Here's Dr. Maile Taualii again.
Today, we will hear from Dr. Maile Tauali'i about Native Hawaiian history and culture. Dr. Maile Tauali‘i is an assistant clinical investigator for Hawaii Permanente Medical Group. She is a Washington native. She received her PhD in Health Services and MPH from the University of Washington.
She's an innovator and national leader. In Hawaii, she established the world’s first global Indigenous MPH program and was awarded the University of Hawaii Board of Regents Excellence in Teaching Award
As a national leader, she serves as a member of the National Advisory Committee on Racial, Ethnic, and Other Populations, All of Us Research Program, and multiple other projects.
In this episode, we talk about the categorization of NH/PI Community and how it came to be, the history of Hawaii and the history of Native Hawaiians in Washington, how that history has led to a distrust of healthcare systems, what we mean when we say nourishing food, and avoiding a common mistake that many providers make with people from Hawaii. Of note, you'll hear that Hawaiin breeze in the background of our wonderful guest throughout this episode that could not be edited out. It was probably best to leave it in any way.
Rahel Schwartz was born in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, and lived in Kenya and Arkansas before making her way to Seattle in 1994. She's currently the Program Executive for Health Equity at the YMCA of Greater Seattle and helps design and implement culturally and linguistically tailored chronic disease prevention programs.
In this episode, we talk about the history of Ethiopian immigration in Washington, the problem of brain waste, making a traditional Ethiopian diet healthier, the role of religion in culture, the complexity of living in a multi-generational household, and gaining trust before providing health education