NOTE: VIDEO AT THE END OF ARTICLE
Jamaal Bowman Attributes Chronic Disease in Black Community to Daily N‑Word Stress
Former U.S. Rep. Jamaal Bowman ignited a fierce debate this week by linking the daily use of racial slurs to chronic health problems among Black Americans. Speaking on CNN’s NewsNight, Bowman delivered an impassioned statement, saying the prevalence of heart disease, cancer, diabetes, and obesity in his community is connected to the cumulative stress from enduring repeated verbal attacks.
“You can’t be calm about this! I’m a Black man in America!” he declared during a heated exchange with panelists. “The reason why heart disease and cancer and obesity and diabetes are bigger in the Black community is because of the stress we carry from having to deal with being called the N‑word directly or indirectly every day.”
Bowman framed the issue as part of “America’s original sin” and placed blame squarely on systemic racism perpetuated in part by the Republican Party. Directing his remarks at former Pence aide Marc Short, Bowman asserted that GOP lawmakers “do not hold each other accountable when it comes to the racism that comes from the party on a consistent basis.”
“It happens on both sides,” chimed in former California Lt. Gov. Abel Maldonado, who attempted a conciliatory tone. “You might think it happens more on your side … you should see my Twitter feed.”
But Bowman was unyielding. With dramatic emphasis, he closed his eyes and stated, “We have cops beating Black people to death.”
The lawmaker’s comments coincided with reflections on his turbulent congressional tenure. Bowman lost his New York seat to George Latimer in the 2024 Democratic primary. His time in office was marked by outspoken activism, including a fiery Bronx rally with Rep. Alexandria Ocasio‑Cortez—where he exclaimed, “We’re gonna show them who the f**k we are!”—and a dramatic incident in 2023, where he pulled a fire alarm in a Capitol office, prompting widespread criticism and a House censure vote.
Bowman emerged as a leading voice in the left‑wing “Squad,” though he frequently clashed with both Republicans and moderate Democrats. His recent remarks on health disparities and racism underline his enduring commitment to calling out inequality—even as critics question whether conflating emotional trauma with physical health oversimplifies complex medical realities.
Sarah Mitchell is a bestselling novelist recognized for her insightful and emotionally resonant stories that explore the complexities of human relationships. Originally from Denver, Colorado, Sarah grew up in a family of teachers who nurtured her curiosity and love for storytelling. She studied psychology at Stanford University, where she became fascinated by the intricacies of human behavior—an interest that would later shape her writing career. Sarah’s novels are praised for their nuanced characters, intricate plots, and ability to capture the subtle tensions that define love, friendship, and family ties. Her breakthrough novel, The Spaces Between Us, became an instant bestseller, lauded for its honest portrayal of strained family relationships and the fragile bonds that hold people together. Since then, she has published several works that continue to captivate audiences around the world. Outside of her writing career, Sarah is passionate about mental health advocacy and often partners with organizations to promote awareness and support for those struggling with emotional well-being. Her personal life is quieter—she enjoys hiking in the Colorado mountains, practicing yoga, and spending time with close friends. With each new book, Sarah Mitchell cements her reputation as a writer who illuminates the beauty and struggles of human connection.
