Published June 19, 2024
Dear Jacob School community,
Today, we join in commemorating Juneteenth, a day that marks a significant milestone in the journey toward freedom and equality in our nation. Juneteenth, also known as Freedom Day, celebrates the emancipation of enslaved African Americans and serves as a powerful reminder of the resilience, courage and enduring spirit of those who fought for freedom.
Our faculty, staff, residents and students actively participated in this year’s Buffalo Juneteenth parade and festival, demonstrating our community’s commitment to celebrating this significant day and advancing justice and equity. As we reflect on this pivotal moment in history, let us honor the progress we have made while recognizing the work that still lies ahead in our pursuit of justice and equity.
In our commitment to fostering an inclusive environment, the Jacob School is actively working towards this goal by revising our curriculum to address historical and social determinants of health, enriching underserved youth with STEM programs, partnering with community organizations to address health disparities in underserved neighborhoods, and much more.
We also acknowledge the critical importance of health equity and strive to address disparities in health care access and outcomes, ensuring that all individuals have the opportunity to achieve optimal health.
Let this Juneteenth inspire us to continue advocating for positive change, to educate ourselves and others, and to stand together in solidarity as we work towards a more just, equitable and inclusive future.
Warm regards,
Allison Brashear, MD, MBA
Dean, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences
Vice President for Health Sciences
University at Buffalo