"How are you doing?" So began the June 25 Listening Session: Processing Racism & Violence Together. The event was led by Deputy Dean for Diversity and Inclusion Dr. Darin Lattimore, together with Dr. Dirk Johnson and Division Administrator Vanessa White.
"We knew that people wanted to talk about the recent events, even if no one knew quite what to say; so extending an opportunity to listen felt right," said Ms. White.
And she was right.
"As soon as we sent out the flyer, I heard from colleagues I'd never met who wanted to help formalize a diversity committee."
The newly formed Yale Surgery Diversity Committee includes faculty, trainees, APPs, and staff members from across the health system.
"When we planned the event with Dr. Lattimore, we were prepared for some awkward radio-silence, but it was just the opposite. We had more people who wanted to share than we had Zoom time," said Dr. James Stewart, a general surgery resident on the committee.
More than 100 individuals from across the health system participated in the optional event — an hour of story-telling, tears, and plans for positive change.
"It gives people permission to be vulnerable, and that's the beginning of the path for positive change."
Vanessa White, Co-Chair Diversity Committee
“There is enormous value in listening to people who think differently or have come from backgrounds other than your own. Too often we surround ourselves in echo chambers where our biases are only reinforced." said Dr. Johnson.
"When we say 'we're listening,' we're sending the message that 'what you think and feel matters, and you are safe to share.'" said Ms. White, "It gives people permission to be vulnerable, and that's the beginning of the path for positive change."
The Yale Surgery Diversity Committee will hold its first meeting this summer.
Members: Dr. Dirk Johnson (Co-Chair), Vanessa White (Co-Chair), Dana Forlano, Dr. Richard Maduka, Evans Simmons, Dr. James Stewart, Dr. Kiley Trott