Introducing Jaimie Meyer, MD, MS, of the Section of Infectious Diseases.
What does diversity, equity, and inclusion mean to you personally?
DEI means taking long-overdue steps to address racism, bigotry, bias, and exclusivity in our community, our institution, and in medicine. It means understanding how long-standing principles, practices, and culture have marginalized some while elevating the voices of others—not based on their ideas or intellect, but based on other factors, like age, race, ethnicity, language, gender identity, sexual orientation, social status. DEI acknowledges the need to change.
Why do you value diversity?
Because our community is more vibrant, interesting, and engaged when there are people with different experiences and ideas contributing to it.
Why should an academic setting be equal and inclusive?
So that the next generation of physicians and scientists feel welcome and ready to contribute brilliant ideas. And so that our patients feel heard and want to engage.
Why are you on the diversity committee?
If not me, who? I am passionate about these issues and want to see our culture change.
What do you look forward to most?
Watching our institution change.
What have you noticed in the department?
More frequent discussion of social and structural factors influencing health. More intentional efforts to recruit diverse residents, fellows, and faculty.
The Department of Internal Medicine’s Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion in Internal Medicine knows that diversity, equity, and inclusion is critical to our mission; that providing a safe, welcoming environment for people of all backgrounds results in beneficial diversity of thought; and believes that having a diverse team enhances our ability to provide excellent clinical care, research, and medical education.