Green Bay Leading the Charge Against Structural Racism and Injustice

A prestigious national health award is on its way to Green Bay. The Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, recognized as the largest philanthropy in the U.S. focused solely on health, has selected Green Bay as one of nine winners of its esteemed Culture of Health Prize for 2024.

Since its inception in 2013, the Culture of Health Prize has honored communities that are pioneers in tackling structural racism and other systemic injustices, thereby enhancing the well-being of their residents. This recognition is not only a celebration of achievements but also a commitment to ongoing efforts in social equity and health improvement.

Green Bay previously reached finalist status in 2021 but emerged victorious this year. The city was recognized for its commitment to creating a welcoming environment that supports everyone, while addressing key issues such as housing, food security, and equitable access to health services, as stated in a recent news release from the New Jersey-based foundation.

Involvement of Local Nonprofits

The award was proudly accepted by the executive directors of several local nonprofits that serve historically underserved populations in Green Bay. They expressed that this accolade validates the impact of their services and programs.

Robin Scott, the executive director of We All Rise: African American Resource Center, emphasized the need for continued effort, stating, “Let me be clear, our work is not done. This is not a trophy; it’s a call to action.” Her statement underscores the genuine commitment of local organizations in striving for meaningful change within the community.

Scott was joined by three other nonprofit leaders: Natalie Bomstad from the health-focused nonprofit Wello, Said Hassan of COMSA, and Amanda Garcia from Casa ALBA Melanie. Together, they accepted the award at a news conference held at the Lambeau Field Atrium, with Mayor Eric Genrich also present to celebrate the city’s accomplishment.

Garcia added, “We are not meant to do this work alone. We know that to truly thrive, people need more than just their basic needs met. They need knowledge, they need access, and most importantly, they need comunidad.” This sentiment reflects a shared understanding among the nonprofits that community support and collaboration are crucial for comprehensive health improvement.

The collective impact of these organizations is further emphasized by the $250,000 award from the foundation, which will be distributed among the four nonprofits. Bomstad announced plans to raise an additional $250,000 from the local community, aiming to sustain their services amid uncertain nonprofit grant funding, ensuring that their vital programs continue uninterrupted.

Assessment of Green Bay’s Application

To qualify for the Culture of Health Prize, applicants were assessed based on six criteria, with three specifics deemed most critical by reviewers:

• The community’s efforts to address structural racism and other injustices affecting health outcomes;

• Long-term policy commitments within the community; and

• The extent to which community decision-making involved those historically impacted by inequities.

Scott noted that Green Bay’s application emphasized the various programs provided by the involved nonprofits, ranging from initiatives promoting access to healthy foods to campaigns raising awareness about cardiovascular health.

After narrowing down to ten finalists, award reviewers visited Green Bay in November 2024 to gain a deeper understanding of the community’s work and how it aligns with the Prize’s selection criteria. Their visits included local agency offices and conversations with approximately 25 community members at Lambeau Field, facilitating a richer insight into Green Bay’s initiatives and accomplishments.

A news release from Spitfire Strategies conveyed the significance of Green Bay’s recognition, stating, “At a time when diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives are being attacked, Green Bay is doubling down on its commitment to advance lasting solutions so that health is no longer a privilege for some, but a right for all.” This highlights the city’s dedication to fostering an inclusive environment for the entire community.

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in a Changing Landscape

The national dialogue surrounding diversity, equity, and inclusion has shifted significantly, particularly during the second term of President Donald Trump. Many organizations have reevaluated or even removed these initiatives to maintain federal funding and avoid controversy. For instance, Green Bay’s school district opted to eliminate references to diversity, equity, and inclusion in its programs.

When asked whether Green Bay’s commitment to improving residents’ lives posed a risk in the current cultural climate, Bomstad responded, “I think the change that we’re seeking is that every person has an opportunity to thrive. So from our perspective, that’s not radical. That’s essential.” This assertion reflects a broader belief in the necessity of pursuing equity, regardless of external pressures.

Scott reinforced this perspective, stating that the organizations involved are continuously evaluating their local environments and determining actionable steps within their control to benefit the community effectively,