In honor of Juneteenth

June 11, 2024

Dear Colleagues,

On June 19th, what is now nationally recognized as Juneteenth, we take time to reflect and acknowledge this significant day in American history, which commemorates the emancipation of enslaved African Americans.  Two years after the Emancipation Proclamation was signed, Union soldiers arrived in Galveston, Texas, on the 19th of June 1865, bringing news of freedom – finally – to those who had been enslaved. This day, now designated as a federal holiday, symbolizes not only the end of slavery but also the enduring struggle for civil rights and equality.

Juneteenth is a time for reflection, education, and action. It serves as a reminder of the resilience, strength, and contributions of African Americans throughout history. At Penn Medicine, we are committed to fostering an environment that embraces diversity, promotes inclusion, addresses systemic inequities in healthcare and beyond, and ensures equity for all members of our community.

As you consider ways to honor Juneteenth and reflect on its historical significance, please join us for this year’s Juneteenth Lecture and Conversation, which will be held on Tuesday, June 18th, at 11am at the Irvine Auditorium.  Sponsored in part by various departments and organizations at the Perelman School of Medicine, we welcome Dr. Freeman Hrabowski, III, President Emeritus of University of Maryland, Baltimore County, who will speak on The Resilient University. This event completes a series of conversations held throughout the spring at PSOM to engage our community in exploring how increased diversity in science is not only a moral imperative, but essential in empowering future leaders to address impending societal challenges.

Sincerely,

Jonathan A. Epstein, MD
Interim Dean of the Perelman School of Medicine &

Executive Vice President of the University of Pennsylvania for the Health System

 

Roy Hamilton, MD, MS, FANA, FAAN
Vice Dean for Inclusion, Diversity, and Equity

Penn Medicine

 

Kevin B. Mahoney

Chief Executive Officer

University of Pennsylvania Health System