Emory Healthcare is dedicated to providing the best care for everyone in our community. We know that having a diverse team where everyone feels included is key to making sure all our patients, families and community members have the best care and more equitable outcomes.
Providing equitable health care goes far beyond Emory’s facilities. We meet community needs where they are, bringing events, programs and patient education that’s tailored to the specific needs of each community.
“Social determinants of health—things like food, transportation, housing and workforce opportunities within a community—significantly contribute to a person's health outcomes,” says Byron Hunter, PhD, vice president of health impact. “At Emory Healthcare, we want to ensure patients have access to the tools and resources they need to manage their health when they leave our walls.”
Black History Month is an important time for us to celebrate the rich history and incredible contributions of the Black community past, present and future. Several of our team members discussed Black History Month, its meaning for them, and their proudest moments helping patients and our community as Emory Healthcare employees.
Black History Month is very meaningful to me because it helps me to continue to connect with my cultural heritage which gives me a sense of belonging. It also makes me proud to know the struggles, challenges and achievements of the Black and brown communities. Ultimately, knowing the history of those that paved the way for me has shaped my personal values and inspires me to be more involved with equality and justice.
Working in the community always fills me with joy. One particularly memorable experience was assisting with a pop-up health clinic at the former Peachtree-Pines homeless shelter. The residents were incredibly grateful for even the most basic healthcare services—blood pressure and diabetes medication, warm socks, and other essentials. It was a humbling reminder. I count my blessings, knowing that, if not for a few fortunate breaks, I could be in their shoes. 
What is meaningful for me about Black History Month is having a mindful time on the calendar to pause, reflect and celebrate a culture of people that hasn't always been celebrated. Honoring humans that have made major contributions to the human experience. One of the ways I partake in Black History Month and every day is ensuring that I am making my ancestors proud of my life. I do this by taking advantage of every opportunity I am presented with excellence.
It's incredibly inspiring to see Black professionals excel in healthcare, especially when considering the various obstacles they've had to overcome. Throughout history, Black individuals in healthcare have had to navigate many barriers, such as racism, economic hardships and limited access to educational resources. Yet, many have not only persisted but have become trailblazers and leaders in the field. For example, figures like Dr. Rebecca Lee Crumpler, who became the first Black woman to earn a medical degree in the U.S. in 1864, set an example for generations to come. More recent examples include doctors like Dr. Joycelyn Elders, who became the first Black woman to serve as the U.S. Surgeon General. These kinds of stories are crucial, as they not only help to change perceptions of Black professionals in medicine but also contribute to creating a more inclusive and equitable healthcare system.
During Black History Month and throughout the year, I find meaningful ways to honor my heritage through my passions and career. As an actor and performer, I bring stories to life on stage, and beyond, using theater, film and storytelling to celebrate the resilience and richness of Black culture. In healthcare, I advocate for health equity and support research initiatives that uplift Black communities, ensuring that underserved populations receive quality, compassionate care. Proud moments in my healthcare journey have been in my ability to advocate for others, whether it is ensuring patients receive the proper care, supporting my team or advocating for people in need.
