As we reach the end of this year’s Black History Month, we’re taking a moment to reflect on and appreciate the strides we’ve made in our Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB) efforts over the past few years. Our journey with DEIB has been one of continual learning and tangible action, focused on fostering a more inclusive and equitable environment for all staff, partners, and patients of PPNCSNJ.
Reflecting on the Past
"Care. No Matter What" is more than a motto for us. It encompasses the values that extend beyond our health center doors. We're passionate about ensuring DEIB across every aspect of our organization.
This work has included building an environment where every employee can flourish, every patient can thrive, and every community can achieve its full health potential. We’ve endeavored to make equity-centered investments that empower our employees and patients to be their whole selves. These efforts are an ongoing journey made of lessons, achievements, and change. On our best days, we remain committed to challenging ourselves to do better.
DEIB During Black History Month
Black History Month is a poignant reminder of why our DEIB efforts are crucial. February is a time to intentionally honor the contributions and achievements of Black individuals and communities throughout history and for us, specifically within the fields of sexual and reproductive health care.
Within our New Jersey community, we’d like to recognize Dr. Dianne Browne of the Southern New Jersey Perinatal Cooperative, Dr. Pamela Brug of the New Jersey Black Women Physicians Association, Crystal Charley-Sibley of Melanin and Maternal Wellness, and Jaye Wilson of Melinated Moms. Thank you for your continued investment and trailblazing work around Black health.
Black History Is Still Being Made
In celebration of Black History Month this year, we took to our socials. We launched a month-long campaign to recognize and celebrate the contributions of Black Americans in the field of reproductive health and highlight their leadership. Our campaign, fueled by the theme “Black History Is Still Being Made,” aimed to bridge the gap between the past and present, underlining the ongoing nature of Black history and its impact on today’s reproductive rights landscape.
Our campaign included a spotlight on Black health care partners who have contributed significantly to the advancement of truly equitable and antiracist reproductive health systems, a crossover with our peer education program, Spill the T.E.A.!, and a pop-culture week of memes featuring Black icons.
By using this campaign to bridge the past and present, we hoped to foster a deeper understanding and respect for the continuous journey and impact of Black health care and history in New Jersey and beyond.
Looking Ahead
Our commitment to DEIB work resonates deeply during this month, yet it is a continual investment we are dedicated to year-round. As we celebrate the progress we have made in the past, we are also looking forward to the future. DEIB is a continuous journey and there is always more work to be done. This excites and encourages us to keep working, learning, and building a more inclusive and equitable future.
Here’s to continuing our DEIB work together, with hope, determination, and steadfast resolve.
Tags: