SFMMS Board Supports Resolutions Declaring Racism a Public Health Emergency July 29, 2020 Advocacy public health, racism 0 On Monday, July 13th, San Francisco Marin Medical Society (SFMMS) Board members, Consultants and Liaisons convened virtually to discuss, among other topics, racial diversity and justice. The Board heard from expert guests and discussed how to advance diversity and inclusion in our organizations, as well as the principles of racial equity and justice. Later in the meeting, the Board voted to endorse proposed resolutions at the state, and city and county levels declaring systemic racism a public health emergency. These resolutions will be considered at upcoming state and San Francisco Board of Supervisors legislative sessions. The state resolution, entitled California State Resolution to Declare Racism a Public Health Crisis, was introduced by Dr. Richard Pan, and co-authored by Assemblymember David Chiu from San Francisco and "White Coats for Black Lives," a joint initiative of medical students from the UC Berkeley and UCSF medical programs. You can read the resolution HERE. The San Francisco Board of Supervisors are considering a similar resolution, entitled Declaring Anti-Black Racism as a Human Rights and Public Health Crisis. You can read the resolution HERE. Physicians in San Francisco and Marin Counties are uniquely situated to observe how racism acts as a social determinant of health. In endorsing both of these resolutions, the San Francisco Marin Medical Society takes an important stand alongside our members and their patients. Comments are closed.
