The first full week of April is recognized in statute as Health Equity Week. It annually reaffirms Connecticut’s commitment to eliminating inequities in health and ensuring all residents have the opportunity to achieve optimal health. It’s an opportunity for conversation, learning, and sharing ideas for advancing health equity throughout the state.
Monday, April 6: News Conference
Health Equity Week 2026 kicks off with a news conference spotlighting this year’s theme, Illuminating the Path to Equity, and the urgent policy priorities shaping health outcomes across Connecticut. Speakers will highlight the need to reduce medical debt, fully fund community health workers (CHWs), and expand access to affordable, high-quality health care. This event sets the tone for the week by centering equity-focused solutions and calling on policymakers and partners to take action.
Tuesday, April 7:
Advocacy Day at the Capitol, 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Advocacy Day brings community members, advocates, and partners together at the Capitol to engage directly with lawmakers on policies that advance health equity. Participants will focus on strengthening the CHW workforce, reducing medical debt through improved hospital financial assistance policies, and expanding affordable and quality health care coverage options. This is a powerful opportunity to elevate community voices and push for meaningful, people-centered policy change.
Roundtable Discussion: Health at What Cost? How Racial Inequity Prices CT Residents Out (12:30 to 2 p.m.)
Hosted in partnership with UConn HDI, CREPH, Indelible Solutions, and Health Equity Solutions, this roundtable will explore how systemic racism drives the rising cost of health and wellbeing in Connecticut. The discussion will examine the economic and health impacts of inequitable policies and systems, and elevate cross-sector strategies to ensure affordability does not come at the expense of dignity or access.
Register: https://bit.ly/HEWAdvocacy26
Friday, April 10:
Health Equity Week Collective Power Event, 5 to 6:30 p.m.
This virtual, interactive session hosted by the HEPxP Coalition will focus on building collective power as a pathway to health equity. Participants will engage in dynamic conversation, shared learning, and creative activities centered on strengthening community connections and advancing change together. This event is designed to be energizing, accessible, and rooted in collective action.
Register: https://bit.ly/HEWCollectivePower26
Saturday, April 11:
2nd Annual Community Day, noon to 4 p.m.
Community Day is a vibrant celebration of connection, care, and collective wellbeing. Families, organizations, and community members are invited to gather for an afternoon of resources, learning, and joy centered on health equity. The event will feature community partners, activities, and opportunities to engage in conversations about health, healing, and justice in an inclusive and welcoming space.
Community Member Registration: https://bit.ly/HewCommunityDay26
