As a public health agency dedicated to eliminating disparities and advancing equity in our community, we were heartbroken by the brutal killing of George Floyd. The violent methods used on demonstrators who were peacefully protesting, and the structural racism that has resulted in a disproportionate amount of death and harm in our communities of color are antithetical to what we stand for as a public health agency.

We grieve with our community, our nation, and the world. We are committed to turning our grief into action. Racism is a public health crisis. We are resolved to building a better community where everyone, no matter the color of their skin or where they were born, has the opportunity to live a healthy, safe, and productive life.

The Southern Nevada Health District is a member of Big Cities Health Coalition (BCHC).

“BCHC member cities are on the front lines of so many world-altering events as they occur – terrorist attacks, early cases of COVID-19, measles outbreaks – and yes, today, even protests, the likes of which this country hasn’t seen since the 1960’s. It is my sincere hope that some good comes from so much anger, frustration, and sadness. As protectors of the public’s health, our members will work to do everything in their power to keep their communities as healthy and safe as possible, while also speaking hard truths as policy decisions are being made today and in the future.”