At RWJF, we believe that everyone in the United States should have the opportunity to live the healthiest life possible, no matter their immigration status.
Richard E. Besser, M.D., RWJF President and CEO
Government System
We’re working to foster a more inclusive, effective, and multiracial democracy.
That means all people can participate in the political processes that impact health and wellbeing; elected and appointed leaders are chosen fairly and represent the priorities of all their constituents; and those who have historically been cut off from decisions have the power to shape policy agendas and hold government accountable.
Dr. Richard Besser, RWJF President and CEO, Condemns Executive Order Backsliding on DEI and Health
These executive orders, along with dozens of others that roll back health measures and diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts, reverse course on the nation’s necessary journey toward a more just and equitable future.
Policy and Laws
How We Are Shaping Federal Policy to Drive Health Equity
Through the public comment process, we are working to ensure that our laws and policies give everyone fair and just opportunity to reach their best health and wellbeing.
6-min read
Race-Conscious Policymaking: A Key Way Forward for Health Equity
Race-conscious policies can pave the way to a future where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.
5-min read
Why We Are Defending Policy Tools That Advance Equity
Discover why race-conscious policies and ballot measures are crucial tools for ensuring our policymaking is truly in service of racial and health equity.
5-min read
How the Ballot Measure Process Strengthens Democracy and Health Equity
The ballot measure process gives marginalized communities a direct way to shape policies that affect their health and wellbeing.
5-min read
Related Content
In the Press
How Trump’s Medicaid cuts hurt New Jerseyans with disabilities. A Q&A
On July 4, President Trump signed the One Big Beautiful Bill Act into law. This bill makes historic cuts to the Medicaid program. What will the impact be for New Jersey residents with disabilities who depend on Medicaid (NJ Familycare) for services? Katherine Hempstead breaks it down in Q&A format.
1-min read
Brief
Marketplace Pulse: ICHRA at a Crossroads
With the enhanced ACA subsidies set to expire at the end of 2025, and individual market premiums clearly on the rise as double digit increases are beginning to be announced across the country, the short-term trajectory of ICHRAs is uncertain.
8-min read
In the Press
We Ran the C.D.C.: Kennedy Is Endangering Every American’s Health
Dr. Richard Besser and several other former CDC directors on the purge of CDC leadership and the wide-ranging impact that it will have on America's health security.
1-min read