Members of the Society of Black Academic Surgeons take offense to JAMA’s statements (@JAMA_current) posted on Twitter and the “Structural Racism for Doctors” podcast. Their suggestion of removing the factual word of racism silences our humanity. We take significant issue with the blatant denial of racism as the underlying cause of painful experiences in and out of the workplace. Moreover, the language used on the podcast emulates the frequent gaslighting, micro- and macro-aggressions and exclusions that we experience daily. We ask that our colleagues learn about our experiences as Black physicians, and the experiences of Black patients to gain a deeper understanding of the painful stain of systemic racism in American history.
The Society of Black Academic Surgeons remains committed to continuing these necessary conversations to advance a more just and equitable profession in service to society.
Kathie-Ann Joseph Promotion & Inaugural Vice Chair for Diversity & Health Equity (Department of Surgery & Transplant Institute)