June is Pride Month, when we recognize the valuable contributions of LGBTQIA+ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer and/or Questioning, Intersex and Asexual) individuals across America and reaffirm our commitment to standing in solidarity with LGBTQIA+ Americans in their ongoing struggle against discrimination and injustice.
Ballad Health, as part of its values, supports equality and treating everyone with respect. This applies to patients and visitors to our facilities but also to fellow team members. As healthcare workers, we’re all in this together and no one should be ostracized, harassed or treated unfairly due to their sexual orientation or gender preference.
Pride Month
The original organizers chose this month to pay homage to the Stonewall uprising in June 1969 in New York City, which helped spark the modern gay rights movement. A police raid at the Stonewall Inn, an LGBTQ bar, led to riots and protests against harassment and unfair treatment of the gay community. A year later, a march was held on the anniversary of the raid. The gay rights movement took shape from there, modeled after the civil rights movement and the women’s rights movement.
Gaining respect and equality
The LGBTQIA+ community has made great progress in the fight for equality. But there’s still a long way to go. Many states lack protections for fundamental rights and dignity for LGBTQ people. Discrimination, bullying and acts of violence still occur toward LGBTQIA+ individuals at an alarming rate. At Ballad Health, our goal is to create a healthcare delivery system that cares for all people and their unique needs.
Studies also show that discrimination against LGBTQIA+ people has been associated with high rates of psychiatric disorders, substance abuse and suicide. Experiences of violence and victimization are frequent for LGBTQIA+ individuals.
There are not only disparities in mental health but also in physical health, as outlined in this articled published by the National Institute of Health. It concludes that a lack of training on the part of healthcare providers “can perpetuate prejudice and discrimination, resulting in suboptimal medical care and an increased incidence of diseases and their risk factors.”
It’s important for all team members to make sure everyone — including the LGBTQIA+ community – has proper access to healthcare and there are no health disparities.
Ballad Health’s Diversity and Inclusion Program
Ballad Health has a Diversity and Inclusion Program that includes a Diversity Council comprising leaders and team members from across the system, and three subcommittees to address 1) healthcare equality; 2) language and mobility; and 3) race, religion and culture. The program embraces an environment where inclusion is valued and people respect each other as individuals, and we appreciate our differences as well as our similarities.
If you want to know more about our diversity and inclusion program or are interested in joining, call 423-302-1572.
June 2022, as Pride Month, is a time to recognize the achievements of the LGBTQIA+ community and to celebrate the great diversity of the American people. Ballad Health and the Diversity and Inclusion Program recognize and celebrate Pride Month!
EVENTS
The first annual Pride Rainbow Festival was held on Saturday, June 25, in Johnson City, sponsored by the Pride Community & Education Center. Later this year, the TriPride Parade and Festival will be held in downtown Bristol on Aug. 27.
For more information on the parade or other Pride-related events:
