Dear Colleagues,
It is February and the time that we celebrate Black History Month. Officially recognized since 1976, the month has served as an opportunity for all Americans to broaden our understanding and appreciation of Black culture and to recognize the significant contributions of African Americans to our country throughout the centuries.
Various events celebrating Black History month are being hosted by VCU, VCU Health and others throughout the month of February (check here for updates). This is especially appropriate as the COVID-19 pandemic continues into its third year, disproportionately affecting communities of color due to longstanding systemic inequities. It has never been more important to widen our awareness.
We encourage you to participate in these events during February, as well as engage in the History and Health program series to learn about our organization’s history so it can be a driver of meaningful change. By doing so, we can connect the past and present to address these inequities, to truly realize our obligations to each other and to become a more inclusive and equitable community.
Respectfully,
David Chelmow, M.D.
Interim Dean, VCU School of Medicine
Interim Executive Vice President for Medical Affairs, VCU Health System
Kevin Harris, Ph.D., MSA
Senior Associate Dean for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion