OSPA Response to Systemic Racism

Dear OSPA members,

As PAs we are charged with advocating for the underserved and historically marginalized members of the communities in which we serve. We have a responsibility to address the health inequities created by the pervasive systemic racism that plagues our nation. The COVID-19 pandemic has magnified injustices in our system in Oregon and beyond. Americans of Color are impacted nationwide at alarmingly higher rates than white communities. Let us be clear BLACK LIVES MATTER.

The recent murders of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, Ahmaud Arbery and others are yet another example of the ongoing, harsh reality for People of Color in the communities where we live. As an organization, we are deeply saddened by these inhumane acts of racism. OSPA believes that the outrage of Oregonians is justified and recognizes its responsibility in advocating for and supporting Black Oregonians.

As PAs we are on the front lines of ensuring a more just and equitable landscape. These trying times demand concrete action.

OSPA pledges:

1. To support further participation of PAs of Color in leadership roles. We are forming a committee to address racial healthcare disparities and welcome input from members of all backgrounds.

2. We will also join the movement to petition the CDC to make racism a public health issue with the intent that real money begets real change.

3. OSPA will also highlight PAs of Color who already give their heart and soul to our profession, and the patients we serve despite the many challenges they have faced and will continue to face in their lives and career.

We know these injustices are not new and that we must be relentless in our pursuit of equitable care for People of Color. This is just the beginning. We are asking for help in moving this organization forward. We want to listen. Please reach out if you are interested in joining this movement or would like to follow up on the actions we have committed to taking. Thank you all for your continued commitment to the profession, promotion of health equity and dismantling of systemic racism in healthcare.

We are asking for help in moving our actions forward. We want to listen. Please reach out if you are interested in joining this movement or would like to follow up on the actions we commit to taking. We can be reached directly at info@oregonpa.org.

Thank you,

OSPA Board of Directors

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