The Significance of June 19
As our nation must eliminate racial injustice and health inequity, there is no better time to look within ourselves, to pause and to learn about this important day in history.
Our students say it best. I am privileged to share their voice.
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Today is Juneteenth! It is also known as Freedom Day, Jubilee Day, and Cel-Liberation Day, the oldest nationally-celebrated commemoration of the ending of slavery in the United States. From its Galveston, Texas, origin in 1865, the observance of June 19th as the African American Emancipation Day has spread across the United States and beyond.
It is a time for reflection and rejoicing. It is a time for assessment, self-improvement and for planning the future. Its growing popularity signifies a level of maturity and dignity in America long overdue. In cities across the country, people of all races, nationalities and religions are joining hands to truthfully acknowledge a period in our history that shaped and continues to influence our society today. Sensitized to the conditions and experiences of others, only then can we make significant and lasting improvements in our society.
In the words of VCU President Michael Rao, “it is an important time to reflect on our history and to recognize it has not always been just. Engaging in meaningful reflection of our history and developing new activities and expanded opportunities to promote diversity and racial equity now will lead us toward a better future.”
Brionna Anthony, D.D.S. Candidate 2021
President, SNDA
Asha Tuli, D.D.S. Candidate 2021
Vice President, SNDA
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In collaboration with a statement released by National SNDA against the acts of Racism and Police Brutality in our country:
As an organization founded on the oppression of blacks in the dental community, we formally denounce the unwarranted murders of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, Nina Pop, and Ahmaud Arbery. We express our deepest condolences to the families and friends of our slain brothers and sisters. These incidents have become far too numerous and common, adding to the unduly long list of deaths occurring on the basis of systemic racism.
To our black student members, your families, and communities: we see, hear, and support you. We stand with you during this time and are adamant that our voices are heard. As your student leaders and dental family, we are taking action. Action to ensure your institutions acknowledge the current state of racism in our country and the detriment this causes on your mental state, well-being, and productivity. We take a stand nationally calling all other dental organizations such as ADA, ASDA, HSDA, SAID and ADEA to do the same.
All lives CAN’T matter until BLACK LIVES MATTER.
To our non-black members, educate yourselves on the plight of Black America, speak out and allow your classmates, neighbors, friends and community to know that you stand in solidarity against police brutality and racism. We need your help.
Together We Can!
Categories Deans blog, schoolwide news