For Immediate Release
AAPM&R Remains Steadfast in its Commitment to Equity, Inclusivity, and Respect for Human Dignity
Rosemont, IL, May 31, 2020 – With the recent deplorable acts of racism in our country, we, as the Board of Governors want all members of the PM&R community to know that AAPM&R remains steadfast in its commitment to equity and inclusivity, and respect for human dignity. To our African American members, we stand with you as a community during this time of extreme pain in a country in utter turmoil.
“The ongoing crisis of institutional racism in our country and the COVID-19 pandemic show us that previously accepted “norms” of the U.S. healthcare system and within society must be critically examined and structurally changed to enable a path for healing. It will require difficult and uncomfortable dialogues, but it is the only way for us to create an inclusive path forward that is different from the past,” Michelle Gittler, MD, AAPM&R President.
As of today, your Academy has united with our peer primary medical associations in the Council of Medical Specialty Societies to release the following statement:
With more than 800,000 physicians across 45 specialties, the Council of Medical Specialty Societies (CMSS) deplores the negative impact of racism in our nation and of racial inequities in our healthcare system. Racism undermines public health. CMSS steadfastly supports its member specialty societies working to promote equity and reduce the adverse impact of racism systemically. We are committed to using our platform to improve the health of every patient we serve.