Important Joint Message from Drs. Jarrell and Suntha
UMB and UMMS Colleagues:
Since the start of the pandemic, there have been reports of a troubling spike in aggression of all kinds against people of Asian descent. This kind of racism has no place in our society, and it is important that we at the University of Maryland, Baltimore (UMB) and the University of Maryland Medical System (UMMS) come together to not only condemn violence, but to drive needed change through our words and actions.
Our organizations and team members have repeatedly proven our commitment, dedication, perseverance, and compassion in supporting all of our communities during the COVID-19 pandemic. Now is the time to once again act as one, and raise our collective voice, and actions, in battling injustice against the Asian American and Pacific Islander community. We have an opportunity to lead by example, and to demonstrate very clearly what we stand for, and that respect, dignity and compassion are at the heart of who we are and everything we do.
It’s up to all of us to make this happen. We recognize that members of our own UMB/UMMS community are hurting, and they need our collective support. Be open to engaging in what can be difficult discussions to advance our collective understanding, reach out to those who may be hurting, and remember, now more than ever, to treat others with dignity, and respect. Let us commit to holding each other accountable. By doing so, we can make a difference every day in our communities and beyond.
Thank You,
Bruce E. Jarrell, MD, FACS
President
University of Maryland, Baltimore
Mohan Suntha, MD, MBA
President & CEO
University of Maryland Medical System
