Health system leaders taking part in the dialogue included (from left) Kevin Myatt, moderator, and panelists Marna Borgstrom, YNHHS; Richard D’Aquila, YNHH; Anne Diamond, Bridgeport Hospital; Patrick Green, Lawrence + Memorial and Westerly Hospitals; Prathibha Varkey, NEMG; and Norm Roth, Greenwich Hospital
As part its Let’s Talk series, the YNHHS Office of Diversity and Inclusion presented the webcast panel discussion Race in America and what it means for diversity and inclusion at YNHHS recently.
Several hundred employees from across the health system tuned in to the hour-long dialogue where leaders shared personal journeys, described race complexities they’ve encountered and discussed strategies related to systematic racism.
Kevin Myatt, senior vice president, Human Resources, who served as moderator, summed up some of the key messages of presentation.
“Now that the conversation on race has begun in our workplace, it’s time to dig deeper within ourselves and reflect on why race is difficult to talk about, understand the challenges we face relative to race, and better support each other to increase inclusion and respect,” he said.
“Remember to make a conscientious effort to communicate with each other and speak up when inappropriate behavior is present. Be open to understanding multiple viewpoints and work with those who think, act, look and believe differently than you. Don’t dismiss our differences – embrace them. Celebrate each other’s work and acknowledge how differences add value to the team.”
The video of the webcast is available on the employee intranet, on the Office of Diversity and Inclusion page. New training regarding discrimination will be rolled out to employees throughout the health system in the spring.
