More than 150 years after the United States abolished slavery, African Americans continue to face daily challenges while other races flourish. Here, Governors State University’s experts explore disparities and shine a light on the path to a brighter, more equitable, future.

Disparities in resource allocation manifest in achievement gaps that leave African American students behind. Education Professor Marlon Cummings explains how school funding impacts student success.

Community Health Professor Joseph Day says environmental racism reflects a value judgement against African Americans and other people of color. The impact manifests in negative health trends and can be felt across the lifecycle of these communities.

Despite what seems like a swamp of fast food restaurants and low-tier food outlets, many African American communities are considered food deserts. Political Science Professor Donald Culverson explains the impact of food inequity on local communities.

Social determinants create health care disparities and higher morbidity rates in the Black community. Dr. Tonya Roberson explains African Americans’ relationship with the health care system, while Dr. Lorri Glass gives context to mental health disparities.

The U.S. policing system is distinctly American and the culture surrounding it reflects its origins rooted in social control. Criminal Justice Professor Jarrod Shanahan explores the call to “defund the police,’’ and Dr. Joao Salm explains the principles of Restorative Justice.

Social Work Professor Phyllis West acknowledges the pain of America’s past and uses it to move forward in self-determination. Inspired by African American ancestors, West delivers a powerful interpretation of Dr. Maya Angelou’s “Still I Rise.”