Gem Daus, MA, Policy Division, Asian and Pacific Islander American Health Forum, 1001 Connecticut Ave., NW, Suite 835, Washington, DC 20036, 202-466-7772, gdaus@apiahf.org

Ending racial and ethnic disparities in health and in the quality of health care will require action at the national, state, and local level will require action by grass roots organizations representing people who are members of ethnic and racial minorities organizations. These organizations can organize and educate their constituents, mobilize them for action, and provide them opportunities to have their voices heard in an effective way. The organizations can also engage in policy advocacy in all settings where decisions affecting racial and ethnic disparities are taken. This paper reviews the role of these organizations in advocacy to end racial and ethnic disparities.

Learning Objectives: At the end of the session, participants will be able to

• Identify the role of grass roots organizations in advocacy strategy to end racial and ethnic disparities.
• Identify particular examples of the roles grass roots organizations can play in advocacy to end racial and ethnic disparities
• Identify opportunities to participate in grass roots organizations in advocacy to end racial and ethnic disparities.

Keywords: Advocacy, Health Disparities

Presenting author's disclosure statement:
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.