On June 5, faculty, staff and learners at Michigan Medicine came together for a virtual town hall on racial disparities and the organization’s current culture.
During the powerful discussion, presenters spoke of their experiences with racism and discrimination — both at Michigan Medicine and throughout their lifetimes.
“This conversation is about our entire Michigan Medicine community, which is now faced with recognizing and validating the experiences, the identities and voices of those marginalized,” said Erica Odukoya, a U-M medical student.
After outlining a few examples of racism that she and her peers had seen in their time in the organization, Odukoya made it clear that her intention was to use the experiences as a way for others to learn.
“I’m not here to chastise Michigan Medicine for what it did not do yesterday,” she said. “But to present a choice of what Michigan Medicine can do today and in the future.”
The event also included doctors, nurses and shared services personnel. It was moderated by Dee Hunt, the organization’s chief human resources officer.
“Each and every one of us deserves an opportunity to leave in peace, find justice and be held responsible for our actions,” Hunt said. “In addressing this challenge, we must continue to stand together to face the change needed in our country, the state and Michigan Medicine.”
Read more about the Michigan Medicine town hall, watch a video of the proceedings, and view a slide show from the recent Black Medical Association virtual protest at Michigan Medicine Headlines.