BWOPA Health Equity Now
Centering Our Voices: BWOPA ONE’s Health Equity Research Calls for Action Across California
New reports elevate the lived experiences of Black women and Latinas—offering a roadmap for transforming healthcare systems statewide.
In communities across California, Black women and Latinas continue to navigate healthcare systems that too often fail to see them, hear them, or serve them equitably.
BWOPA ONE, in partnership with Hispanas Organized for Political Equality (HOPE), is working to change that narrative.
Through its newly released Health Equity Research Series, BWOPA ONE is not only documenting disparities—it is elevating the voices of those most impacted and turning insight into action.
Conducted by EVITARUS, the research draws from the experiences of more than 800 Black women and Latinas across the state. The findings are clear: barriers to healthcare access, workforce opportunities, maternal care, and mental health services remain deeply entrenched. But so too are the solutions.
“This work is rooted in the belief that those closest to the challenges are also closest to the solutions,” said LaNiece Jones, State President & CEO of BWOPA ONE. “When we listen to Black women and Latinas, we don’t just hear the problems—we hear the path forward.”
From expanding access to culturally competent providers to investing in mental health services and strengthening healthcare career pathways, the reports offer actionable recommendations grounded in real experiences.
“California stands at a pivotal moment as healthcare workforce shortages intensify and demand for care continues to grow. This research comes at a critical time, elevating the voices and lived experiences of Black women and Latinas who are eager to serve in these essential roles,” said Helen Iris Torres, CEO of HOPE. “By listening to their insights and acting on the solutions they have identified, we have a clear pathway to strengthen the healthcare workforce and improve health outcomes for communities across our state.”
At its core, the research is about more than healthcare, it is about dignity, equity, and the right to thrive.
BWOPA ONE is now calling on community organizations, policymakers, and leaders across California to use the research as a tool for advocacy and transformation.
Because when Black women and Latinas are centered, entire communities benefit.
Healthcare Workforce Report
Pathways & Priorities in California’s Healthcare Workforce
- Examines barriers to entry and advancement
- Highlights workforce shortages and representation gaps
- Recommends pathways for equitable workforce development
👉 Download Report [LINK ]
Maternal Health Report
California Equity in Maternal Health
- Explores disparities in maternal care and outcomes
- Centers experiences of Black women and Latina mothers
- Identifies policy and care system improvements
👉 Download Report [LINK]
Mental Health Report
Equity in Mental Health
- Identifies barriers to accessing mental health care
- Highlights stigma, provider gaps, and affordability challenges
- Recommends culturally responsive solutions
👉 Download Report [LINK]
WHY THIS MATTERS
Across all three reports, a consistent truth emerges: Equity requires intentional investment in access, representation, and culturally responsive care.
Black women and Latinas continue to face systemic barriers—but they also offer clear, actionable solutions.
CALL TO ACTION
We invite community-based organizations, advocates, policymakers, and partners to:
✔ Use this research to inform programs
✔ Integrate findings into advocacy strategies
✔ Advance equitable policy solutions
✔ Educate and empower your communities
PARTNER WITH US
Interested in a presentation, partnership, or collaborative activation?
Contact: [email protected]
Let’s turn research into action—together.