Dear

The American College of Podiatric Medicine is strengthened and enriched by having an inclusive culture with diversity of races, cultures, backgrounds and perspectives. 

We are united by a shared vision to create positive change for the podiatric profession and public health. Collectively, we are saddened by the shocking deaths of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, Tamir Rice, Tony McDade, Ahmaud Arbery, Manuel Ellis and countless others who have fallen victim to unjust violence. Police brutality and prejudice towards persons of color is a clear, tragic indicator of rising racial and ethnic animus, and it is neither tolerable nor acceptable.

We acknowledge that throughout our country’s history, racism and social inequality has affected every aspect of our collective, national lives. Educational and professional opportunities, healthcare disparities, personal safety and the stability of our communities have all been impacted by this underlying, malignant societal disease known as Racism.

Racism is not always transparent and can sometimes be found in the hearts of many; and is often placed there unwillingly or unknowingly by one’s upbringing and community culture. As such, it can lead to thoughts and actions that may not seem racist through one’s own perspective, but nonetheless flow from the same prejudicial root.

The recent Covid-19 Pandemic affliction on the Latino, African American, Pacific Islander, Asian and Native American populations has re-ignited the national discussion on healthcare disparities and social determinants of health. We applaud these acknowledgements and welcome the opportunity to participate in the national discussion. The coronavirus pandemic has illuminated racial health inequities harming our Black and other minority communities, exposing the structures, systems, and policies that create social and economic conditions that lead to health disparities, poor health outcomes and shorter life expectancies.

On behalf of the Board of Directors and Staff of the American College of Podiatric Medicine, We Condemn All Acts of Racism, Discrimination and Social and Health Inequality. We denounce race-related violence, systemic oppression and racial injustice and we empathize with those affected by its harmful actions.

As an Educational organization that values Diversity, Inclusion, Equality and Respect, we will advocate for all our Members, the Podiatric Profession, their families, and patients that face discrimination based on the color of their skin, gender or socioeconomic status. We also pledge to raise awareness about the disparities and social determinants of healthcare to encourage prevention models and research into the causes and solutions regarding racial and ethnic health disparities.