Women in Healthcare is an organization founded on the principles of Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion. We stand as allies in the condemnation of discrimination and racism.
As allies, we support Black Lives Matter and societal change. Since our incorporation, we have conducted and engaged in thought-provoking dialogue around diversity and equality.
We have spent the last week intentionally listening to the voices that need to be heard, educating ourselves on the issues and taking action.
This Special Edition of LeadHERship includes resources and ways that you, too, can act – through education of yourself and others, donating your time and money, and advocating for legislation in government. Standing up for injustice looks different for everyone but we encourage you to listen, educate, act, and create change in any way that you can.
LISTEN AND EDUCATE
| It is through education that we begin to truly understand the barriers that stand in the way and how we can take action to break them down. Education comes in many forms – books, podcasts, documentaries, to name a few. But also, through listening – listening to other perspectives about how to talk to loved ones about racism, how we have gotten here, and how we have continued to let racism happen. Women in Healthcare is dedicated to dismantling biases and to life-long growth and education. As we all continue to learn, below are a few resources that may assist you in your journey: Teaching your kids about racism Books to read for children Books to read for adults Documentaries on racial injustice How to check in on black friends and colleagues right now How to talk to family about Politics Dismantling Racism How to make this moment the turning point for real change How to be an Ally |
ACT
| We are hopeful about the actions many organizations, community groups, and individuals are taking to propel real change. Groups that we admire that are not only a powerful voice, but are making change, are listed below. We encourage you to learn more about these organizations or find one in your community that moves you. Color of Change works to make the government more responsive to racial disparities. Leadership Conference for Civil and Human Rights, a coalition of more than 200 diverse national organizations whose mission is to promote and protect the civil and human rights of all people. The Loveland Foundation supports black women and girls to receive therapy support and heal communities of color. NAACP Legal Defense and Education Fund a premier legal organization fighting for racial injustice. National Action Network is a leading civil rights organization in the nation. National Cares Mentoring Movement provides social and academic support to help black youth succeed in college and beyond. The National Urban League is a historic civil rights organization dedicated to economic empowerment, equality, and social justice. Rainbow Push Coalition is a multi-racial, multi-issue, progressive, international membership organization fighting for social change. |
CHANGE
| Women in Healthcare has taken action in making a significant donation to Color of Change. Much like Women in Healthcare, Color of Change will not stop until its mission is achieved. Color of Change challenges organizations, government, and corporations to correct injustice. Color of Change has been active in supporting the black community during COVID-19 as well as a tremendous advocate for Black Lives Matter. |
Our belief is that through education, mentorship, and professional development we can create change and make a difference in advancing women in their careers. We will be conducting intentional programming selected to exemplify these pillars with a focus on race and the amazing black women in our community. Share your voice and hear the voice of others, and join Women in Healthcare’s response as we listen, educate, and act to create change.
Be on the lookout for details on these upcoming programs:
Black Perspectives in Healthcare – Join WIH for a panel of senior level black women in healthcare as we discuss their journey, the barriers they have faced and continue to face, tough conversations and common issues, and how we can all learn to be a stronger advocate to women of color in the workplace.
Book Club – The first book in our National book club series following our “Black Perspectives in Healthcare” panel will be So You Want To Talk About Race, by Ijeoma Oluo. Women will be brought together from across the county for a moderated discussion around the book. Space will be limited, conversation guaranteed to be thought provoking.
Lunch with Leadership – The popular Lunch with Leadership series is back – this time with Dr. Willette Burnham-Williams. Hear about Willette’s journey and role as Chief Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Officer for Medical University of South Carolina and the hurdles and triumphs she has encountered along the way. This session will be interactive and a great opportunity to hear and learn from a powerful mentor.
Intersection of Social Determinants of Health & Health Disparities Webinar – Join us for a webinar exploring how the social and economic factors that drive health outcomes are exacerbated by structural and systemic racial inequities.
Don’t let the conversation stop here – keep the energy going!
If you, your organization, or your chapter are acting, volunteering, donating, or promoting diversity and inclusion, we want to know about it. Send us your stories at [email protected].