Originating, as most good things did, in the '70s, Black History Month honors the achievements, history, and triumphs of African Americans. This year, BHM highlights the contribution of Black leaders to the world of medicine. So, as we approach the end of 2022's Black History Month, let's take a moment to look at some of the influential Black leaders in health and wellness that define medicine as we know it today. As well as a few non-medical related leaders.
Dr. Joycelyn Elders, former Surgeon General, was born in rural Arkansaw to farmer parents. She gained a degree from Philander Smith College in Little Rock, continuing on to join the army where she trained in physical therapy. After which she studied and completed her residency in pediatrics at the University of Arkansas. But Dr. Elders was determined for more, becoming the head of the Arkansas Department of Health, during which she advocated for adolescents and sexual health. Finally appointed as Surgeon General in 1993, Elder's continued her medical campaign, advocating for those who couldn't speak for themselves.
For more information about Dr. Elders, Click Here
We all know who Martin Luther King Jr. is, I mean, he has a whole day in his honor. But for a quick refresher, MLK, a southern Baptist minister, was a powerful orator, unifying a nation divided by the scars of slavery. Dr. King led the civil rights movement, advocating for equal rights and non-violent protest. MLK led boycotts, sit-ins, and speeches, all in protest of racial segregation and inequality.
For more information about Martin Luther King Jr., Click Here
Patricia Bath is an accomplished ophthalmologist and inventor whose contributions to the medical world can still be observed today. Dr. Bath advocated for sight as a basic human right and pushed for affordable eye care. As an ophthalmologist, she became a medical resident, becoming the first African American to do so. As an inventor, she invented a Laserphaco Probe, a vital tool in cataract-removal surgery. Dr. Bath blazed trails in the medical field for both African Americans and women, becoming the first female chair of the Ophthalmology Residency Training Program at UCLA.
For more information about Patricia Bath, Click Here
A somewhat lesser-known activist in the civil rights era, Shirley Chisholm was the first Black woman to become a member of congress. She served 7 terms as New York's house representative. Staunch activist, Chisholm lobbied for racial and gender equality as well as for the poor. Before all this, she began as an early education teacher, in which she gained a master's degree. After all this, Chisholm became the first Black woman to run for president, which she didn't succeed at. Nevertheless, Shirley Chisholm is a role model for all.
For more information about Shirley Chisholm, Click Here
Charles DeWitt Watts was an NC local, residing mainly in Durham as a surgeon and activist. Born in Atlanta, Dr. Watts moved to Durham after becoming a surgeon. There, he became the director of student health at North Carolina Central University and Chief of Surgery at Lincoln Hospital. As a surgeon, he saved people's lives, as an activist, he pushed for the recognition and training of young Black doctors and medical students. He also made moves to ensure health care for the poor, turning the Lincoln Hospital into a community medical center.
For more information about Charles DeWitt Watts, Click Here
To see the full, in-person display of these monumental people, visit the Monroe library's teen area!
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