Binational Health Month
Binational Health Week started in 2001, as a partnership between State of California, the Health Ministry of Mexico and the Health Initiative of the Americas, aimed at addressing health issues among migrant farm workers. This offered communities the opportunity to keep local economies as healthy as their workers, something particularly important in agricultural regions dependent on migrant farm labor. San Joaquin County, which has one of the most robust agricultural industries in the state, was one of the first counties to engage.
Since then, it has grown into a national, monthlong celebration of health-focused advocacy and community mobilization effort across the country. Activities now range from providing awareness, resources and medical services to celebrating wellness. Observations have also expanded to embrace the more diverse populations in communities, while highlighting binational workers and their families, all of whom continue to contribute to local economies in more ways than one.
In San Joaquin County, the Board of Supervisors has proclaimed October 2024 as Binational Health Month, celebrating the theme Diversity, Equity and Inclusivity in Healthcare.
Binational Health Coalition Members:
San Joaquin Health Centers, Facilitator
Coalition includes California Human Development
Community Partnership for Families
El Concilio
Health Net
Health Plan of San Joaquin of San Joaquin
League United of Latin American Citizens
Events are held in partnership with San Joaquin General Hospital, San Joaquin Public Health and the Mexican Consulate.
