Trump’s Overhaul of CDC Puts Black Health at Greatest Risk

September 11, 2025

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is experiencing significant disruption following President Trump's dismissal of Director Dr. Susan Monarez, which triggered mass resignations among senior leadership. The agency has been further destabilized by the permanent layoff of 600 employees and the cancellation of hundreds of millions in grants to state and local health departments. These changes have particularly impacted divisions focused on health issues disproportionately affecting Black Americans, including HIV prevention, chronic disease, and environmental safety.

Who is affected

Black Americans who face disproportionately higher rates of HIV (seven times the rate of whites)
Vulnerable populations and rural communities
States with large Black populations like Georgia and Texas
State and local health departments losing critical funding
Communities relying on CDC programs for violence prevention, HIV/STD awareness, and chronic disease management
Atlanta residents affected by CDC job cuts

What action is being taken

Black health leaders are urging communities to act quickly in response to CDC changes
The Vaccine Integrity Project, a university-led initiative, is providing independent vaccine data
Violence Prevention Solutions is consulting with local organizations following federal cutbacks
The Center for Black Health & Equity is advocating for accountability, transparency, and sustained funding
Nine former CDC directors have issued a warning statement about health security risks

Why it matters

The CDC restructuring is removing expertise focused on closing health gaps affecting Black communities
Critical public health programs addressing HIV, chronic disease, and environmental safety are being gutted
State and local health departments are losing essential funding for disease prevention and immunization clinics
The appointment of a leader without medical background signals a potential shift away from science-based decision-making
Gains in HIV prevention could collapse without federal support
The changes jeopardize public health, national security, community wellness, and jobs

What's next

No explicit next steps stated in the article

Read full article from source: The San Diego Voice & Viewpoint