This episode is hosted by Dr. Anna Gunz, with guest Dr. Ingrid Waldron (Part 3)

Episode Summary:

• Dr. Waldron emphasizes the power of education in tackling systemic racism,
  describing how, during her work on the environmental racism bill, she realized that many people lacked a full understanding of systemic racism, especially in the context of Canada's healthcare system, which is based on a Western worldview.
• Empathy and compassion are compared, particularly in terms of understanding the lived experiences of others. Dr. Waldron shares her belief that people with privilege may struggle to fully comprehend the challenges faced by marginalized communities. However, empathy and tolerance are crucial in helping these individuals understand issues such as racism or disability.
• Dr. Gunz reflects on her experiences in a rural, predominantly white community, where there may be some resistance to changes regarding racial diversity. She shares stories of subtle forms of racism and the ways in which people in her community may inadvertently hold onto outdated beliefs due to a lack of exposure or education.
• Dr. Waldron expresses optimism and hope, with progress being possible even after setbacks.

Recording Date: 2024-11-22

Episode Production & Management Team:

Jakob Wilk, Emma Cornell, Abby Walker, Olivia D'Andrea Brooks, Emily Douglas, Danielle Pineda

Show Artwork:

Laney Beaulieu

This episode is hosted by Dr. Anna Gunz, with guest Dr. Ingrid Waldron (Part 2)

Episode Summary:

• A discussion of Bill C-226, which was Canada’s first environmental justice law. The bill was co-developed by Dr. Waldron and aimed to provide structural solutions to environmental racism.
• The mechanisms through which health can be impacted by environmental racism are discussed. Environmental factors such as poor air quality and climate change can contribute to various health issues, especially in marginalized communities.
• Dr. Waldron stresses the need for a holistic approach to health and describes how many Indigenous and African perspectives emphasize the interconnectedness of nature and health.
• There is a discussion about the need for healthcare professionals to be more aware of environmental and structural determinants of health. The lack of connection between environmental health, climate change, and mental health in medical and public health training is a major gap.
• Dr. Waldron talks about her upcoming book, which explores the intersection of race, mental health, and colonial history. The book addresses the misdiagnosis of Black individuals in psychiatric settings and the stigma surrounding mental health in Black communities.

Recording Date: 2024-11-22

Episode Production & Management Team:

Jakob Wilk, Emma Cornell, Abby Walker, Olivia D'Andrea Brooks, Emily Douglas, Danielle Pineda

Show Artwork:

Laney Beaulieu

This episode is hosted by Dr. Anna Gunz, with guest Dr. Ingrid Waldron (Part 1)

Episode Summary:

• Dr. Waldron describes her personal background and early aspirations, including the influence of her family on her area of study.
• Dr. Waldron shares about her struggles with finding a sense of direction and
  moments of feeling lost and unmotivated.
• Despite initial anxiety and reluctance, Dr. Waldron started teaching at the University of Toronto, where she fell in love with teaching.
• Sparked by an encounter with an environmental activist, she became interested in the health component of environmental justice. This led her to focus on environmental racism and its impact on health outcomes.

Recording Date: 2024-11-22

Episode Production & Management Team:

Jakob Wilk, Emma Cornell, Abby Walker, Olivia D'Andrea Brooks, Emily Douglas, Danielle Pineda

Show Artwork:

Laney Beaulieu