06/19/2026
Juneteenth, celebrated on June 19th, commemorates the emancipation of the last enslaved African Americans in the United States in 1865. It is a powerful moment of reflection, celebration, and continued advocacy for equity, including in healthcare. Oral Health Kansas believes in reducing disparities and achieving greater health equity in every part of the state by disrupting systems of poverty. Community conditions can create unequal opportunities, choices, and access to resources that allow people to live healthy lives. We focus on social determinants and how communities can alter the ways that structural drivers affect daily living conditions, providing the opportunity to improve health while reducing inequities. Black Americans have historically experienced barriers to dental care, including lack of access to affordable care, and limited availability of Black dental providers. These factors contribute to higher rates of untreated tooth decay, periodontal disease, and oral cancers in Black communities.
Let this Juneteenth serve not only as a remembrance of freedom delayed but also as a reminder of the persistent disparities and the work still ahead. By advancing oral health education, access, and equity in Black communities, we take meaningful steps toward justice, not just in words, but in care. The path to equity is ongoing, and it begins with acknowledging the past, addressing present barriers, and building a healthier, more inclusive future for all.
