A Message from the Lupus Foundation of America: Happy Juneteenth!
The Lupus Foundation of America would like to wish our community of lupus warriors, caretakers, advocates, and health care professionals a happy Juneteenth!
On this day in 1865, the Emancipation Proclamation was read to newly freed people in Texas – the last state to free its enslaved population after the proclamation’s ratification in 1863. This was a profound and solemn moment that recognized the long-fought battles to freedom, those who were never given the opportunity to experience it, and the long road ahead to rebuild our nation.
In this time where the Black community and its allies are mourning and protesting the horrific killings of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, Ahmaud Arbery, Rayshard Brooks, and countless other Black men and women lost to systemic injustice and violence, it is evident there is still an immense amount of work to do.
The Lupus Foundation of America has a unique role in this work because lupus disproportionately impacts Black women, and the health care space is often fraught with implicit bias that may prevent them from receiving the best care possible. We do not take this reality lightly and are dedicated to pulling our weight in the fight for equity and justice by re-affirming our commitment to the following:
- Elevating and uplifting the voices of our Black lupus warriors, caretakers, and health care professionals who fight valiantly each day to solve the cruel mystery of lupus.
- Addressing health care inequities and disparities in communities of color to ensure all people living with lupus are more quickly diagnosed, receive the best care, and are included in the clinical research efforts to find a cure.
- Providing diverse resources and information that address the health concerns unique to the Black lupus community and other marginalized groups.
We know our work does not end there. We will continue to welcome feedback and insight to help broaden our efforts to support the Black community, particularly in the health care space.
We hope you spend this celebratory day safe and with loved ones.