OUR STORY
Born in Brooklyn, NYC
Dr. Uché and Oni Blackstock are born, inheriting a legacy of resilience and determination. Their mother, Dr. Dale Blackstock, a trailblazing Black woman in medicine, defied the odds as the first in her family to attend college—being raised by a single mother on public assistance. Dr. Dale Blackstock died of acute myelogenous leukemia at only 47 years old. Her legacy continues to inspire Dr. Blackstock’s commitment to advancing health equity and dismantling systemic racism in healthcare.
A Legacy Begins
Dr. Uché Blackstock and her twin sister Oni graduate from Harvard Medical School, a milestone that reflects their family’s legacy of resilience and achievement. Inspired by their late mother, Dr. Dale Blackstock, they follow in her footsteps as Black women in medicine, committed to addressing systemic racism and advancing health equity for marginalized communities.
The Start of a Movement: AHE
Dr. Uché Blackstock founds Advancing Health Equity (AHE) to address the systemic racism driving health disparities. Frustrated by institutional barriers and inspired by her lived experience as a Black physician, she launched the organization to partner with healthcare institutions and organizations, dismantling inequities and creating transformative, inclusive systems. This marked the beginning of a mission to advance health equity for all.
COVID-19 Amplifies Inequities
In 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic exposed and exacerbates pre-existing racial health inequities. Advancing Health Equity emerged as a critical partner, dissecting the systemic factors driving these disparities and helping organizations mobilize for meaningful change. Through our expertise, we empowered partners to address the roots of inequity and prioritize health justice during a time of unprecedented challenge.
Inspiring others
In January 2024, Dr. Uché Blackstock released her New York Times bestselling book, Legacy: A Black Physician Reckons with Racism in Medicine. Inspired by her late mother, Dr. Dale Blackstock, the book examines systemic racism in healthcare and its impact on Black Americans. Dr. Blackstock shares her personal and professional journey, offering a powerful call to action to create a more equitable and inclusive healthcare system.
Samantha Truman named new CEO
Since joining the organization in 2020, Samantha Truman has brought her expertise in healthcare strategy and deep commitment to equity. Now, as CEO, she leads Advancing Health Equity in its mission to dismantle systemic barriers and build inclusive, transformative healthcare systems. Founder Dr. Uché Blackstock continues to guide the organization’s vision and impact in the role of Chief Advisor.
Shaping the Future of Health Equity. Together.
We continue to partner with organizations to dismantle systemic barriers, strengthen organizational culture, and improve health outcomes. Through collaboration, evidence-based strategies, and lived experience, we drive meaningful change in healthcare systems. Looking ahead, we remain committed to transforming healthcare into a space of equity, dignity, and inclusion—ensuring that every community can thrive. Together, we’re building a healthier, more equitable future.