Ripples of Hope in the Mississippi Delta: Charting the Health Equity Policy Agenda
Seminar:
Editors Dr. Nicole Huberfeld and Dr. Sarah H. Gordon discuss their recently releaseed book “Ripples of Hope in the Mississippi Delta: Charting the Health Equity Policy Agenda” written by the late David K. Jones. The first 50 people to arrive will receive a free copy of the book. Snacks and beverages are provided!
This seminar is a part of Cornell Public Health’s Spring Seminar Series.
Speakers:
Dr. Nicole Huberfeld, Edward R. Utley Professor of Health Law, Boston University School of Law & Boston University School of Public Health
Dr. Sarah H. Gordon, Assistant Professor, Boston University School of Public Health
About the Book:
The Mississippi Delta consistently ranks as having some of the worst health outcomes in the United States. Even with this stark reality, researcher David K. Jones (1981–2021) found “ripples of hope.” For four years, Jones turned to residents and local leaders to learn firsthand the intricate connections between race, place, and health in the region. Using an innovative mix of photovoice, policy, and social science research, Jones weaves their insights with data analysis to show how local, state, and national policies and structures, whether or not intentional, constrain or expand daily choices that affect health.
Blaming individuals for poor health choices isn’t the remedy. Jones describes how a community-led, goaloriented approach to creating health equity policies is needed and that everyone benefits when we ensure that all people can pursue a healthy, fulfilling life. In this compassionate and practical book, Jones provides a roadmap for anyone who would like to make a difference, wherever they live. Jones calls on his readers to act for change and provides examples from the Delta to show how. He reminds us that small step —”ripples of hope”—can save lives and improve health.
Jones was killed in September 2021– at age 40 while his book was undergoing peer review. He died in a preventable accident that occurred due to lack of investment in public infrastructure. His death underscores the main point of his book: people suffer, even die, when society does not uphold its values to protect each other.
