“The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort and convenience, but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy.”
-Martin Luther King
Hi everyone,
We have work to do. The future is uncertain for medical research, affordable healthcare, and the fight against global warming.
As physicians, we identify and respond to threats. We know vaccines save lives, and we must prepare for bird flu. We understand the toll gun violence, poverty, poor nutrition, and pollution takes on our patients, and we must seek action.
As physicians, we treat refugees, asylum seekers, and immigrants. We care for the unhoused, incarcerated, and those struggling with addiction. We treat all patients with state-of-the-art medicine, even those who can’t pay. We deem healthcare a human right.
It’s been nearly 57 years since Dr. King was assassinated for demanding that America live up to its creed. To honor his memory, let’s uphold our profession’s values. Let’s demand funding for medical research. Let’s demand affordable medications, vaccines, and healthcare. Let’s demand action on climate change, gun violence, and war. Above all, let’s demand compassion and respect for all.
Our professional responsibility transcends politics. It takes courage to speak the truth and combat lies and disinformation. We do it for our patients. We don’t back down.
Have a good Sunday, everyone. After a quick climb up East Rock I’ll be working on a lecture on medical professionalism.
Mark
What I’m reading:
- 'It was horrifying': New Haven immigrants, allies draw lessons from 2007 ICE raids in Fair Haven By Mark Zaretsky
- Remember MLK’s words as we approach a pivotal Jan. 20 By Colbert King
- MLK: What We Lost By Annette Gordon-Reed
- A Racist Purge Almost Destroyed My Family. Another One Is Coming. By Timothy Soseki Kudo
- I Lost Everything in a California Fire. It Changed How I Lived. By Pico Iyer
- As Polio Survivors Watch Kennedy Confirmation, All Eyes Are on McConnell By Sheryl Gay Stolberg
- Doctors and Nurses Should Get Ready for Mass Deportations By Danielle Ofri
MDS