Champion of Health Equity calls for inclusion and action in new book
“Room at the Table” by Dr. Renée Canady of MPHI, releases Sept. 26
LANSING, Mich. — We’ve all heard the terms diversity, equity and inclusion. They’ve even become points of contention in many spaces. But how do we begin to truly understand the “so what” behind these terms? How do we integrate the issues of equity and justice that challenge us to put these ideas into action? How can we all see ourselves as leaders and incorporate them into our lives to shape a more promising future for our communities and ourselves? Dr. Renée Branch Canady, CEO of Michigan Public Health Institute (MPHI), has not only encountered these ideas but has also dedicated years to making them a reality for our public health and healthcare systems. In “Room at the Table,” releasing on Sept. 26, Canady shares her wisdom through her stories on the frontlines as an equity public health leader.
Much like in her work at MPHI, Canady presents a leadership call for all who seek to understand the intricacies of equity justice and dive deeper into understanding how to advance change within public health and other fields. The book extends an invitation to those eager to embark on this journey together.
“‘Room at the Table’ teaches you the principles of equity so that you can better understand yourself, understand others, and make a lasting difference in this world,” Canady writes. “No one has truly come from the same place. You’ll learn to acknowledge difference, not dismiss it. You’ll tap into your own stories and lived experiences to better see opportunities and spaces where privilege, or the lack thereof, has shaped your thinking, seeing, and doing.”
Throughout the book, Canady shares research and highlights significant issues facing our nation. She brings to light the true act of doing for the sake of change in hopes of inspiring and motivating everyone to be leaders who are courageous enough to do something that has never been done before, especially in the health equity space.
“This book isn’t about equality because we’re not equal,” Canady said. “We move humanity forward by sharing and hearing what others have gone through. The stories I share in this book invite people to be similarly vulnerable and transparent as leaders.”
“Room at the Table” is a critical tool for empowering this generation of leaders and the next to address these issues within themselves to grow, understand, and push forward.
To learn more about “Room at the Table,” click here.
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ABOUT MPHI
MPHI is a Michigan-based, nationally engaged nonprofit public health institute leading public health efforts with a mission of working together to center equity, promote health and advance well-being. Our broad network of partners includes academia, government, community-based organizations, and healthcare providers. These connections empower us to develop solutions to a wide range of challenges. Learn more about our work by visiting www.MPHI.org.
