Dear Matheny Community:
These troubling times have underscored the racial, economic, and health injustices that people of color face in the US and around the world. We fully support the #BlackLivesMatter movement and condemn injustices and discrimination on the basis of color, sex, or ability. We also stand with the peaceful protestors who are exercising their rights thanks to the freedoms we enjoy in this country.
Having lived through the civil rights movement and having served poor black families as a pediatrician, I am especially affected by current events. Systemic racism in healthcare exists and causes health disparities that are rampant in the black community. Systemic racism also adversely affects black families when it comes to housing, food security and education. Now is the time to stand up against all types of discrimination and try to lift each other up.
Over 74 years ago, Matheny was founded on the basis that there were very few educational opportunities for people with disabilities. Today, Matheny is a comprehensive non-profit hospital and school where people of all races, economic status, and abilities are cared for with the love and respect they deserve. We are proud of the diversity of our staff and we are committed to continue our efforts to combat racism on all levels. Matheny stands in solidarity with our black brothers and sisters and we are hopeful that this is the beginning of the end of systemic racism.
Kendell R. Sprott, MD, JD
President and CEO
