Historically, Black individuals have broken barriers and made significant contributions to science and healthcare, but often overlooked. This Black History Month, Lucky Iron Life is proud to celebrate the groundbreaking achievements of Black healthcare professionals and nutritionists. These trailblazers have advanced global health, championed health equity, and influenced nutrition research in ways that continue to impact communities worldwide.

Black Leaders in Global Health and Nutrition

• Gladys Kidd Jennings. A pioneer in nutrition and dietetics, Gladys Kidd Jennings was one of the first nutritionists to examine the socioeconomic factors affecting nutritional health in Black communities. Her work was crucial in highlighting that nutrition is not just about individual choices, but is also heavily influenced by larger social and economic factors.
• Dr. Flemmie Pansy Kittrell. Dr. Kittrell was a trailblazer in highlighting the nutritional needs of Black communities. Her research contributed to more equitable public health approaches and nutrition education programs. Dedicated to mentoring future generations, she spent much of her career educating and training nutritionists and healthcare professionals, ensuring her impact would last for years to come.
• William E.B. Du Bois. A prominent Black intellectual and activist, Du Bois co-founded the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People in the United States. A fierce advocate for civil rights and racial equality, he drew attention to discrimination present in the healthcare system through his petition to the UN in 1947.
• Dr. Charles Drew. Known as the father of the blood bank, Dr. Drew was an African American surgeon and medical researcher who made significant contributions to the field of blood transfusion and blood banking. His work revolutionized blood storage and transportation, making timely and effective transfusions possible, including to individuals with severe anemia.

Additionally, many Black community leaders, activists, and healthcare workers have historically played crucial roles in addressing food insecurity and promoting healthy eating within their communities. Their work, though sometimes less formally recognized, is vital to the field of nutrition.

Spotlight on Black-Led Organizations Driving Impact

We recognize that meaningful change happens when communities lead the way in advocating for health equity. In our work, we are privileged to collaborate with Black-led organizations that are making a difference in menstrual health, maternal care, and equitable healthcare access across Canada.

• Help A Girl Out (HAGO)
  Founded by Yanique Brandford, Help A Girl Out is dedicated to ending period poverty and ensuring menstrual equity for all. HAGO provides menstrual hygiene products, education, and advocacy to break the stigma surrounding menstruation. In partnership with HAGO, Lucky Iron Life has supported menstrual health initiatives in Honduras, where 300 Lucky Iron Fish were distributed alongside menstrual hygiene kits to improve health outcomes for young women and girls.

• Black Women Aligned
  Founded by Kutongwa Nemoyo, Black Women Aligned is at the forefront of advocating for Black maternal health and well-being. Founded by Kutongwa, the organization is hosting Toronto’s first-ever Black Maternal Health Week in April 2025. The week-long event will shed light on the disparities in maternal healthcare for Black women and create a space for critical discussions on improving maternal health outcomes through policy, research, and community-driven and centred solutions.

• Black Physicians of Ontario Association (BPOA)
  The Black Physicians of Ontario Association (BPOA) is committed to addressing healthcare inequities, supporting Black medical professionals, and improving health outcomes for Black communities. Through mentorship, advocacy, and research, BPOA works to dismantle systemic barriers in healthcare and advance culturally competent care across the province.

These organizations embody the ongoing fight for equitable healthcare and nutrition access, carrying forward the legacy of Black pioneers in health and nutrition. Supporting and uplifting their work is one way we can contribute to lasting change.

Ways to Celebrate Black History Month

Recognizing the contributions of Black pioneers should extend beyond February. Here are some additional ways to celebrate Black History Month, particularly for those in healthcare settings: 

1. Commit to ongoing learning and awareness of Black history. Whether through reading black authors, listening to guest speakers or conducting personal research, acknowledge and appreciate the contributions of black individuals. Share what you’ve learned with colleagues and your community to keep the conversation going.

2. Ensure your workplace celebrates diversity by recognizing the contributions of Black professionals, organizing Black History Month events, or leading diversity and inclusion training sessions. Creating a welcoming and supportive environment benefits everyone.

3. Black populations experience higher rates of certain illnesses and face disparities in healthcare due to social determinants of health. Support Black-led community organizations, collaborate with Black health initiatives, and advocate for policies that promote equitable healthcare access. Volunteering and engaging in advocacy efforts can help create a more inclusive and just healthcare system.

By honouring Black pioneers and actively working toward health equity, we can create lasting change in nutrition and global health.

Additional references:

1. Celebrating Black History: Innovators Who Connected Nutrition and Health | Food is Medicine Coalition

2. 8 Black Scientific Pioneers Who Forever Changed Food - IFT.org

3. 16 African American Public Health Heroes You Need To Know!   

4. Black Health Matters: Innovators, Researchers, and Advocates Leading The Way