The current racial injustice occurring across the country is disheartening to The National Association of Health Services Executives (NAHSE). NAHSE shares the anguish and frustration of the victims and families affected by the recent inhumane treatment and death of George Floyd in Minneapolis, Minnesota; the aggressive, brutal attack and fatal shooting of Ahmaud Arbery while jogging in his hometown in Brunswick, Georgia; the senseless death involving officers entering the Louisville, Kentucky home of emergency medical technician Breonna Taylor; and the pattern of the ruthless deaths of Trayvon Martin in Florida, Eric Garner in New York, Walter Scott in South Carolina, Terence Crutcher in Oklahoma, Botham Jean in Texas and many other African-American males.
NAHSE’s very existence as a non-profit association of Black health care executives is grounded in the pride of our vital role in elevating the quality of health care services and addressing healthcare disparities of minorities and under-served communities. Our vision is to improve the health status of the communities we serve, including addressing societal issues such as the systemic connection between racism and healthcare disparities that impact African Americans.
As an African American male, I understand and profess “Black Lives MATTER” and call attention to the heightening frustration and anger of the institutionalized racism evidenced by the inequality in law enforcement. These lingering unaccountable injustices are inciting justifiable frustration and resentment which is now spilling out in the streets across America – even amid the CoVid-19 pandemic. The hurt, anger, and frustration that are driving this enduring plague should be neither misinterpreted nor dismissed.
While NAHSE does not condone violence and destruction, we strongly support the voiceless – and their allies – making themselves heard. While it is easy to pinpoint the challenges in these situations, NAHSE seeks to be a part of the solution. As leaders, NAHSE members we have a moral responsibility to be a force for change and to support our communities in finding a way forward during this unprecedented season.
NAHSE is at the forefront in advocating for social justice, and will remain steadfast in governing ourselves strategically, with respect and desire to understand others. NASHE will relentlessly continue its commitment in eradicating minorities’ health disparities, including the senseless killing of African Americans. We will organize, plan, and use our collective voice to bring about the change for a nurturing, inclusive community where all people are safe, supported, and appreciated.
Our prayers are for families, community leaders, law enforcement, governmental agencies, and cities impacted during the civil unrest that has erupted from what began as peaceful protests in over 100 cities.
Fabian A. Stone, President