Academic Medicine Open Forum

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  • 1.  Commemorating Juneteenth

    Posted 06-19-2020 10:40:00 AM
    June 19 is an important date in American history on which we recall the true end of slavery in this country. Today, Juneteenth also reminds us of the long way we still have to go to achieve the fundamental promise of 'liberty and justice for all' that our nation was founded upon.

    Juneteenth is also 
    being increasingly recognized as a holiday by companies and organizations. The authors of this Fast Company commentary recommend commemorating this holiday by practicing the concept of active allyship: making the ongoing commitment to use one's privilege to take actions that create more equitable and inclusive workplaces.

     

    They also offer organizations a sort of playbook for getting started with tips such as:

    • Give employees a day off to volunteer
    • Share educational resources

     

    Are your institutions commemorating Juneteenth in meaningful ways?



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    David Acosta
    Chief Diversity and Inclusion Officer
    Association of American Medical Colleges
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