259: Health Equity in Practice: Systems Change, Policy, and Community Engagement with Alexander Bonano, MPH

Omari Richins, MPH of Public Health Careers podcast talks with Alexander Bonano, MPH, a Health Equity in All Policies Project Manager at Boston Public Health Commission.

In this episode, Alexander Bonano, MPH, shares how he’s advancing racial equity within public health systems at the Boston Public Health Commission.

We explore what “Health Equity in All Policies” looks like in practice, common misconceptions about equity work, and how authentic community engagement can drive real systems change. This conversation offers honest insights for anyone looking to build a meaningful career in public health.

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Chapters:
@0:00 Introduction to Alex Bonano and His Background
@8:57 Journey into Public Health and Racial Equity
@14:14 Role at Boston Public Health Commission
@20:05 Challenges and Triumphs in Equity Work
@26:01 Misconceptions in Racial Equity Work
@31:52 Connecting Education, Youth Development, and Public Health
@33:15 Addressing Racial Disparities in Education
@35:16 The Meaning of Public Health
@37:52 Historical vs. Current Trauma in Public Health
@40:24 Academic Journey and Cultural Identity
@45:52 Transitioning from Global to Local Health Perspectives
@52:57 The Role of Mentorship in Public Health
@53:52 COVID-19 and the Call for Public Health Action
@57:36 Foundational Experiences in Public Health Education
@59:31 Transforming Perspectives on Substance Use and Harm Reduction
@1:03:34 Global Health Consulting: Insights and Experiences
@1:05:23 Diversity in Public Health: A Personal Journey
@1:06:57 Empowering Men of Color in Public Health
@1:14:01 Creative Health: Engaging Communities for Better Outcomes
@1:18:51 Advice for Aspiring Public Health Professionals