Benita Cohen, Chair of the CPHA Board of Directors, has announced the release of an updated (2021-25) strategic plan for the Association. The plan, titled “Roadmap to Change”, includes the following introduction:

CPHA envisions an equitable and sustainable world inhabited by healthy people in thriving communities. Today, achieving our vision for public health faces many challenges. The COVID-19 pandemic and the opioid crisis have amplified the shortcomings in our health surveillance systems and the failings of our health and social safety nets. The climate crisis poses an existential threat. Racialized, Black, Asian, and Indigenous Peoples continue to endure the pernicious effects of systemic barriers limiting their ability to receive quality health and social services. Far too many in our society are denied equitable access to the social, ecological and structural determinants of health, the primary factors that shape the health and well-being of individuals and communities.

CPHA will continue to advocate for healthy public policy on current and emerging public health issues while acknowledging and speaking out on deep-rooted inequities and social injustices. With courage, innovation and commitment, CPHA will draw on the collective strength of its members’ public health expertise and passion for change to accelerate progress in key strategic areas.

The strategic plan outlines CPHA’s vision, mission, values, and core functions and articulates six strategic priorities that will guide the actions of the Association for the next five years:

• Strengthen and renew public health systems and practice;

• Advance Truth and Reconciliation with Indigenous Peoples;

• Advance social justice, anti-oppression and anti-racism;

• Promote population mental wellness;

• Promote action on the ecological determinants of health; and

• Enhance engagement and organizational sustainability.