As an educational leader and a woman of color, I must convey my condemnation of the recurring violent acts performed by police who are sworn to serve and protect as well as the institutional structures that allow racism and these racist behaviors to persist. I am both outraged and saddened by the blatant disregard for human life. These racist acts have lasting impact on communities of color. Black and brown people are being stripped of their constitutional right to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.
As an educator, we teach our students about the principles of social justice and health equity. We are taught to provide the best possible care we can to ALL patients, regardless of age, gender, sexual orientation, race and ethnicity. As clinicians, we are accountable for our actions and must model anti-racist behavior. This is expected of everyone, including the police. Why? Because our lives matter.
Karen A. Wright, PhD, PA-C, DFAAPA
Assistant Professor, Physician Assistant Program
Department of Physician Assistant Studies
School of Medicine and Health Sciences