Black History Month Spotlight
February’s designation as Black History Month provides an opportunity to honor and reflect upon the many contributions made by African Americans and Afro-Latinos to our culture and society. It can also serve as a catalyst to examine ongoing challenges and encourage collaboration among all Americans to work toward building a society in which all voices and experiences are heard and appreciated. This week, we shine a spotlight on Dr. James McCune Smith: The first African American to earn a medical degree.
While Smith, who was born enslaved in 1813, is credited as being the first African American to earn a medical degree, he had to travel to Scotland to study because no American university would admit him. Smith was born in New York City, where he attended the African Free School. Upon graduation, he applied to attend several American colleges, but was denied admission by all. Through the help of benefactors, he managed to raise enough money to attend the University of Glasgow. There, he completed his bachelor’s and masters’ degrees before earning his medical degree in 1837.
Upon returning to New York City, he began his medical practice and also opened the first black-owned pharmacy in the U.S. He would go on to be a prolific writer and became the first African American to publish peer-reviewed articles in medical journals. He was also one of the nation’s leading abolitionists, serving as a co-founder with Frederick Douglass of the interracial Radical Abolitionist Party. He died of congestive heart failure in 1865.
Have a Joyous Ash Wednesday
In the Christian faith, Ash Wednesday—observed on Wednesday, February 22 this year—marks the beginning of the season of Lent. It lasts six weeks and is a time for many to prepare for Easter (April 9) by observing a period of fasting, repentance and moderation.
Festival Promotes Inclusion Through the Arts
ReelAbilities Houston, a multi-day film and arts festival annually produced by the JFS Alexander Institute for Inclusion in collaboration with the Mayor’s Office for People with Disabilities, continues through February 23. The festival uses the arts to help promote inclusion and amplify the voices of people with disabilities locally and nationally. The 2023 festival features award-winning films, the ReelPeople: UP Abilities speakers event, ReelMusic Concert and ReelArt, showcasing the work of Celebration Company artists and educational programs in schools and workplaces. All art, film and music events are free and held at several locations around the Houston area. Check out the full event schedule here.
Join or Create an ERG
Are you interested in learning more about our Employee Resource Groups (ERGs)? Text ERG to 45991. Click here for more information on all 10 of Houston Methodist’s employee created and led ERGs. Any employee may join an ERG they identify with or would like to learn more about or support.
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