Dear Colleagues,
The events in the United States in recent days have drawn the world’s attention to anti-Black racism across the border. At the same time, it is clear that we have our own work to do in Canada and in healthcare.
Racism affects the health of individuals and populations. As doctors, we have power granted to us by virtue of our profession. With that power and that privilege, we are called upon to address racism in healthcare.
Racism in healthcare is a fact. Racism in Canada is a fact. The experiences of Black and Indigenous people, as well as other people of colour, cannot be denied. We must do better, and family doctors have a role to play in addressing systemic racism in healthcare and in our society.
On behalf of BC Family Doctors, I commit that we will listen, learn, and lend support in the efforts to reform medicine. We will make space when other voices need to be heard, and we will lead in our work with courage and integrity.
I will be spending some time doing some reading to learn more, starting with the resources and books listed below. I encourage you to think about your role in opposing racism and learn more as well. It’s a small first step, but one that we all must take.
As always, I want to hear from you at sgp.president@doctorsofbc.ca.
Reading list
- Canadian Public Health Association: Racism and Public Health position statement
- CFPC: Health and Health Care Implications of Systemic Racism on Indigenous Peoples in Canada
- CMAJ blog: MD Offer letter
- Books: 7 Books That Helped Me Find Solace and Define My Purpose as a Black Medical Student