A Note From the EDI Commitee on Systemic Racism

Dear Friends and Colleagues,

Events have showcased that while some progress has been made to stem racism in our country, we still have a long way to go. Black Americans have long endured police brutality, workplace injustices, and health, housing and socio-economic disparities which persist to this day. Archbishop Desmond Tutu said the following words that are unfortunately still relevant, "If you are neutral in situations of injustice, you have chosen the side of the oppressor. If an elephant has its foot on the tail of a mouse and you say that you are neutral, the mouse will not appreciate your neutrality.” 

We all have a responsibility, especially our white colleagues, to do everything we can to address racial inequities. And as members of the Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) committee, and as individuals, we share the concern, sadness and anger at what has transpired and deeply sympathize with the pain felt by our Black colleagues and communities. We fully agree that diversity is our strength.

To help, we have created departmental strategies to eliminate microaggressions and discrimination, and make DPHS a safe and welcoming environment for everyone. While words can temporarily soothe the soul, it’s important that we all consider taking some form of action. Here are some resources we have compiled to help with self-education and working with local and national organizations

To learn more or to work with the committee, please visit our website and send a comment

- The EDI Committee

 Educate Yourself on Systemic Racism

  • Watch a 1-Minute video on being black by Jane Elliott
  • Read How to be Anti-Racist, by Dr. Ibram X. Kendi
  • Take Harvard’s Implicit Bias Test to learn your level of conscious and unconscious bias
  • Listen to “Seeing White” made in collaboration with the Racial Equity Institute Listen to “1619” a history of slavery and American colonization and the impact on current policy

Start (or Continue) Your Anti-Racism Work

Donate to Organizations Working to End Systemic Racism

 Take Care of Yourself