Today marks the close of another National Minority Health Month, but that doesn’t mean our commitment to advancing health equity stops here. This year’s National Minority Health Month theme, Be the Source for Better Health: Improving Health Outcomes Through Our Cultures, Communities, and Connections, highlighted the impact of social determinants of health (SDOH) on our health. When we all receive quality, equitable, and respectful care and services that are responsive to our cultural health beliefs and practices, preferred languages, economic and environmental circumstances, and health literacy levels, the health and well-being of our families, communities and nation will soar.

Throughout 2024, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Office of Minority Health (OMH) will continue to work with our public health, community-based, and other partners to Be the Source for Better Health by sharing information and resources on the unique SDOH factors impacting the health of racial and ethnic minority populations and American Indian/Alaska Native communities.

I am grateful to the individuals, community-based organizations, and federal, state, and local governments, as well as other public and private entities who were inspired to Be the Source for Better Health by sharing information, resources, and real-life examples of addressing SDOH this April.