Jazz Pharmaceuticals’ Post

February is recognized as #BlackHistoryMonth, a period dedicated to honoring the remarkable history of African Americans, including those who have made unparalleled contributions to the field of #healthcare. Notable figures like Dr. James Smith, who in 1813 became the first African American doctor, and Dr. Mae Jemison, the first black female astronaut who developed a telecommunication systems that enhanced healthcare delivery in developing countries, are just a few noteworthy examples among many. These extraordinary individuals serve as a constant inspiration for us to continually improve and ensure equitable access for all. To read more on these trailblazers, explore this article from EverydayHealth. 🔗 https://loom.ly/OA85_nA

Today is Juneteenth, the federal holiday that celebrates the emancipation of enslaved Black Americans in the US. On June 19th 1865, more than two years after the signing of the Emancipation Proclamation, Union troops in Galveston Texas finally freed 250,000 people still held in bondage, marking the end of a cycle. Yet today, nearly 160 years later, there is still so much more work to be done. If you are living in a white body, I recommend setting aside some time today to study our shared history, and to reflect. Regardless of your personal circumstances, you likely have more access to privilege and power than you think. I identify as a white woman. I come from a working-class lineage. Here are three articles that I am studying right now. White Supremacy Culture is still here: https://buff.ly/3PjcVxe “White” lineage (Roots Deeper than Whiteness): https://buff.ly/446i3ZN History of Juneteenth: https://buff.ly/2LdLIZu If you find these articles helpful, please also like + comment + share + re-post. Thanks for considering. 🙏🏼🙏🏼 LeeAnn

So grateful to have my art on ACOG’s The Green Journal for the past two years. My thoughts going into this piece: In order to address the disparities in maternal health, we must pave a new path and provide guidance that can ultimately save lives. As we delve into the history of Black colleges and infirmaries, we witness both their rise and unfortunate decline. Our collective journey is centered around achieving positive health outcomes for all patients. However, it is crucial to acknowledge the dark chapters of our past. One such example is the pewter spoon, a symbol of the sins committed against enslaved Black women and children. These spoons were used in Montgomery for unethical experiments. It is imperative that we take action and strive to return to a time of compassion, empathy, and respect in healthcare (Black Doctors). By doing so, we can bring about a transformative change in the narratives surrounding healthcare today.

Nina Simone made the statement in quotes in 1968. Of all the possible emotions that a human being can experience, fear might in fact be the one we least want to experience. As discussions of race and racism are being erased from history books, not enough attention has been paid to the history of Black fear. Especially during #blackhistorymonth there is much talk about historic suffering, courage and resilience, and nothing about fear. The narrative of progress in North America (NA) endeavors to create distance between our present state and the oppressive systems upon which this continent has been founded. There is much written about how Black people are to be feared and nothing that addresses the ancestral trauma and current experience of fear as a Black person living in a world where we are often targeted simply for being Black. Fear of being harmed and the ability to safeguard oneself, fear of discrimination, rejection and being excluded, fear of being misunderstood, fear of being ridiculed and disparaged, fear of saying, being and doing the "wrong" thing, and the fear of standing in power and speaking truth, just to name a few. The permanence of Black fear comes with massive consequences. In the literature you will read of "weathering" and the emotional tax of being Black. These terms refer to the pensiveness, stress, and fear deep in our bones that come with perpetually living in a state of survival mode; hypervigilance to stay alive and be safe. It should be no surprise that high blood pressure, stroke, and heart disease present at astronomically high rates in the Black community. According to Nina Simone's definition of freedom; we are not yet free. So when interacting with your Black colleagues, keep in mind that when they say they're "okay", or "fine", there is likely a ripple of fear lying just below the surface that they have learned to live with each and every day. #blackhistory

Celebrating Black History Month: Honoring African Americans' Impact on the Arts in the US! As we kick off Black History Month, it's essential to recognize and celebrate the profound influence of African Americans on the arts in the United States. This year's theme is particularly close to my heart as we dig into the rich layers of creativity, innovation, and resilience that have shaped the cultural landscape of this nation. Film and Television: From the groundbreaking work of directors like Spike Lee and Ava DuVernay to the unforgettable performances of actors such as Sidney Poitier and Viola Davis, African Americans have played pivotal roles in shaping the storytelling narrative on the big and small screens. Music: The rhythmic beats of jazz, the soulful sounds of gospel, and the revolutionary tunes of hip-hop—African American musicians have gifted the world with an unparalleled musical legacy. Icons like Miles Davis, Aretha Franklin, and Kendrick Lamar have left an indelible mark on the global music scene. Visual Arts: From the vibrant paintings of Jean-Michel Basquiat to the thought-provoking sculptures of Kara Walker, African American artists have challenged norms and redefined the boundaries of visual expression, contributing immensely to the world of contemporary art. Literature: The literary contributions of authors like James Baldwin, Maya Angelou, and Ta-Nehisi Coates have not only reflected the African American experience but have also influenced the literary canon, fostering a deeper understanding of cultural diversity. This month, let's commit to amplifying the voices and stories of African Americans in the arts. By recognizing their achievements, we not only honor their legacy but also inspire future generations to continue pushing boundaries and shaping the world through their creative endeavors. #CnjAssociates #BlackHistoryMonth #ArtsandCulture #AfricanAmericanArtists #CelebratingCreativity