EVMS will close Monday in observance of Juneteenth
Shared on behalf of Alfred Abuhamad, MD, President, Provost and Dean of the School of Medicine
On Monday EVMS will observe the Juneteenth holiday — an important commemoration of the emancipation of enslaved people in the U.S. and a reminder of the work still to be done to achieve true racial equality.
Originating in Galveston, Texas, in 1865, the observance of Juneteenth has evolved to both celebrate African American freedom and emphasize education and achievement.
Juneteenth calls for deep reflection. It requires we acknowledge the bigotry, systemic racism and disparities which persist in this country 158 years after emancipation. It reminds us of our collective responsibility to remove all barriers to equality.
EVMS has long worked diligently toward such ideals.
U.S. News & World Report recently named EVMS the most diverse medical school in Virginia — a testament to our shared effort to foster a diverse, equitable and inclusive environment. Within Hampton Roads, EVMS team members continue working in a myriad of innovative and collaborative ways to improve representation in healthcare — including the launch of our ENRICHe initiative in partnership with Norfolk State University. ENRICHe will expand opportunities for students traditionally underrepresented in medical and health professions and help build a future workforce that represents and embodies our community.
We have much to be proud of — and much more meaningful work ahead of us, too.
I hope you will use this opportunity to consider the significance of Juneteenth — to read, reflect, and engage in important conversations with family, friends and colleagues about how to move toward meaningful and lasting change.
Thank you for all you do to further the mission of EVMS and for your staunch commitment to making our community healthier and more just.