Celebrating Black History: Honoring Legacy, Building Inclusion

Dear Jacobs School Community,

February marks Black History Month, a time to honor the immense contributions of Black Americans to our nation and, closer to home, to our own Jacobs School community. While we celebrate the unique experiences and achievements of Black Americans, we recognize that their history is woven into the very fabric of American history itself.

This month, we also acknowledge National Black Women Physicians Day on February 8. This day serves as a powerful reminder of the critical need for diversity in medicine. Currently, Black women make up less than three percent of all physicians, creating barriers to access and trust for many communities.

At the Jacobs School, we are deeply committed to fostering a culture of diversity, equity and inclusion. This means actively working to ensure that our community reflects the richness of the world around us, with all its diverse backgrounds, experiences and perspectives.

Here are some ways we can celebrate Black History Month and work towards a more equitable future:

• Learn and appreciate the rich culture and unmatched talents of Black individuals. 
  Visit our Jacobs School digital library for curated resources.
  
  
• Share your recommendations for further learning and engagement. 
  
  
• Support local Black-owned businesses. 
  Discover local vendors through our Local Vendor Initiative page.
  
  
• Engage with our upcoming events:
  • SNMA Student Group: Game Night, Movie Night, Let's Talk About Black Love, Black History Month Celebration.
    See details on the event page.
    
    
  • Feb. 22. Unveiling of Jacobs School Community Mural: "Together We Grow.”
    
    
  • Feb. 22. Department of Surgery: Beyond the Knife.
    Featuring keynote speaker Deadric T. Williams, PhD, Associate Professor of Sociology at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville.
    
    
  • Feb. 26. UB Community Health Equity Research Institute: How to Change the East Side a Symposium.
    An interactive discussion with community groups and activists.
    
    
  • Feb. 29. White Coats for Black Lives Student Group: Imposter Syndrome Kintsugi Workshop.
    Acknowledge and combat imposter syndrome by making beautiful art out of broken pieces and take your artwork home with you.
    
    
• Connect with the broader community:
  • Step Out Buffalo: Local Charitable Organizations that Support the Black Community
    
    
  • Michigan Street African American Cultural Center.

Black History Month is an opportunity to reflect, learn and celebrate. We know that we are stronger and more effective when we empower individuals from all backgrounds and cultural groups. By embracing the diversity of our community and working together, we can create a more just and equitable future for all.

Sincerely,

Allison Brashear, MD, MBA

Vice President for Health Sciences and
Dean, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences
University at Buffalo