We Stand United Against Racism
Over the last week, America has been rocked by the tragic killings of George Floyd, Ahmaud Arbery, and Breonna Taylor, and the mistreatment and harassment of African Americans have abruptly thrust racism back into the national and global spotlight. Set against the backdrop of the unprecedented global COVID-19 pandemic that has disproportionately impacted communities of color, it has been a very painful and difficult week for many of us, leaving us struggling to find the right words to say. And the events of the past few days are a chilling reminder of the historical narrative that racism has been a part of American history since our founding, from slavery, civil war and reconstruction, the Jim Crow era, civil rights, to the events of the past few weeks. The most recent racial incidents are only one chapter of racial inequality in the U.S.
Just like the inequalities witnessed in every aspect of American life, including economic opportunity, housing, education, and wealth, to name a few - healthcare is no different. We’ve seen inequality permeate healthcare - from blatant medical racism, the Flexor Report, and the Tuskegee Syphilis Study - and it’s difficult, if not impossible, to point to even one health measurable where African Americans health outcomes are better. It should be an awakening shock that even in 2020, one of the most significant predictors of health outcomes is zip code. At CHI, we believe this status quo needs to be radically disrupted. That’s why we are committed to serving as a catalyst for transformation and rethinking healthcare in America where racial inequity exists. We are committed to working closely with our stakeholder community, from grassroots advocates and community voices to Chief Executive and Chief Diversity/Inclusion Officers at large healthcare enterprises, to identify and understand the root causes of health inequities and inspire and empower each other to serve as change agents. We will make a difference in the healthcare and lives of African Americans, which will have ramifications for all communities of color.
We are committed to identifying health disparities, shining a light on health inequities, and working collaboratively with the broader healthcare community to devise actionable strategies and tactics to make healthcare more equitable for African Americans. Additionally, we are even more committed to listening to communities of color to understand the daily challenges African Americans face - not only in healthcare but in all facets of life, as we cannot view healthcare in a vacuum and separate from other aspects of life.
As CHI and the nation continue to reflect on the turmoil, emotions, and anger of the past few weeks, it’s become even more apparent that now is the time for greater empathy that begins with listening and continuing to foster dialogue about racial inequalities. Nationally, we must be prepared to understand the unique challenges facing African Americans, continue to empathize with their challenges, and be one of the voices that make a difference. We must continue to foster a culture that acknowledges the pain and challenges that are unique to African Americans, not only in healthcare but in all aspects of life. We must continue to listen for as long as it takes to disrupt the status quo and affect real action and change.
