About Us
What is Blache?
Black Leadership Advocacy Coalition for Healthcare Equity in Illinois (BLACHE) is a coalition of African American-led organizations in Illinois purposed to identify and dismantle systemically racist policies and funding processes which result in inequitable healthcare in order to negate the historically inequitable incidence and impact of diseases specifically among the Black population throughout Illinois. BLACHE affiliates are multiple African-American/Black-led CBOS (defined by the State of Illinois JCAR Code, as 1) a not-for-profit CBO which has a board of more than 50% African American, 2) has a headquarters located in a primarily African American community and 3) the majority of its clients are African Americans.
HOW DO WE ACCOMPLISH THE GOAL:
BLACHE’s approach to GETTING TO ZERO in Illinois, includes reducing new HIV diagnoses among non-Hispanic African Americans by 90% to be equivalent to only 14% of new diagnoses – matching the population of African Americans in Illinois. In order for this to happen, the following must be incorporated into public policy and health resource allocation:
- Culturally Appropriate Interventions: It is essential to prioritize culturally appropriate and responsive interventions that bridge the gap in linkage, retention, and engagement or re-engagement with medical and case management services. By addressing the unique needs of the AA community, we can effectively reduce viral suppression gaps and enhance health outcomes.
- Education and Awareness: There is a clear need to increase awareness, education, and uptake on various HIV prevention measures such as PrEP (Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis) and PEP (Post-Exposure Prophylaxis) among African Americans. This must extend beyond a single generation and encompass the diverse cultures within the AA community. Adequate funding is needed to overcome barriers and empower AA-led CBOs to make meaningful inroads and provide targeted expertise.
- Funding and Resource allocation by the City, County, State – then even Federal health departments, and among Foundations must reflect the incidence of the virus in the AA community.
As BLACHE moves forward, government and other funders must acknowledge and amplify the voices of AA-led service providers, community leaders, and advocates who understand the unique needs and challenges of the African American community in the fight against HIV/AIDS. By addressing the underlying inequities in funding and resources, we can make tangible progress towards GETTING TO ZERO 2030.