Background
Racism and discrimination are experienced by many in the health system. Whether it an individual who is a patient or their support system, whether it is an employee or physician, or whether it is a learner in a formal training program, racism and discrimination can result in significant harm. For patients, this can result in worse care experiences and poorer health outcomes. For those working and learning in the health system, this can result worse experiences, barriers to advancement, and a diminished sense of belonging within the organizations and institutions to which they are embedded within.
While this space has been one often characterized by anger, fear, polarizing perspectives, and mistrust. We would propose a values-based approach (embedded with concepts of gratitude, humility, curiosity, listening, and reflection) that is applied in all situations. We need to intentionally ensures that hatred and anger does not result in the oppressed becoming the oppressor as we attempt to address past injustices. Instead we would support the creation of opportunities for the sharing of diverse ideas and perspectives to create a space for critical dialogue based on deep reflexivity, authentic compassion, and shared humanity.
Key Definitions & Concepts
Discrimination
An action or a decision that treats a person or a group badly for reasons such as their race, age or disability. (reference)
Equity-Deserving Groups (EDGs)
“..communities that experience significant collective barriers in participating in society. This could include attitudinal, historic, social and environmental barriers based on age, ethnicity, disability, economic status, gender, nationality, race, sexual orientation and transgender status, etc.” (reference)
Anti-Racism
Anti-racism is a process, a systematic method of analysis, and a proactive course of action rooted in the recognition of the existence of racism, including systemic racism. Anti-racism actively seeks to identify, remove, prevent, and mitigate racially inequitable outcomes and power imbalances between groups and change the structures that sustain inequities. (reference)
Equity
Attainment of fairness and justice, with imbalances addressed. (reference)
Health Equity
"Health equity is achieved when everyone can attain their full potential for health and well-being." (reference)
Social Justice
Approach promoting that each person has the right to the full spectrum of economic, political, and social rights and opportunities. (reference)
Articles & Books
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