Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a multisystemic autoimmune disorder that can cause significant morbidity and mortality. SLE typically affects women during their childbearing years, and can disproportionately affect racial and ethnic minorities. Because this disease afflicts them at the height of their youth, patients often carry a large psychosocial burden. This is especially the case in groups that may have to grapple with other issues such as poverty, work disability, and lack of insurance. In this review we look at these issues, and how they affect patients at one major academic center in the Bronx, NY.