ODEIB Blog

December 21, 2023

Dear HSDM Community,

Annually, December 26th through January 1st marks Kwanzaa — a seven-day celebration for African-American and Pan-African culture. In 1966, activist, author, and professor, Dr. Maulana Karenga, created the holiday Kwanzaa with the goal of giving people of African descent an alternative to the practice of dominant society and existing holiday [Christmas]. Consistent with Karenga’s original intention, although no longer framed as an alternative to Christmas, Kwanzaa offers a space for a multi-day celebration of Black history, values, community, and culture.

The name Kwanzaa is rooted in the Swahili phrase matunda ya kwanza or “first fruits” – which is used to refer to African harvest festivals. Even beyond the name, the concepts and symbols of this holiday stem from African harvest festival traditions and practices that can be found in Africa and the African diaspora. The seven principles of Kwanzaa, collectively called, Nguzo Saba, comprise a synthesis of Pan-African, socialist, and nationalist values. The first day of Kwanzaa, December 26th, is dedicated to the first principle, Umoja (unity). Following this, the next four days of Kwanzaa are aligned, respectively, with the four principles: Kujichagulia (self-determination), Ujima (collective work and responsibility), Ujamaa (cooperative economics), and Nia (purpose). The culmination of this holiday begins on December 31st, the sixth day, with a communal feast named Karuma Ya Imani, or Feast of Faith. The accompanying principle for this day is Kuumba (creativity), which encourages followers to do as much as possible to leave their community in a more beautiful and beneficial state than when inherited. Everyone participating in Karuma Ya Imani drinks from a communal cup passed around for the duration of the gathering. The main meal of the feast is usually a variation of stew or soup; however, the possibilities for dishes on this day are endless. The last day of Kwanzaa is dedicated to the principle of Imani (faith).

Those who celebrate Kwanzaa often set up vibrant and meaningful decorations. A Mkeka is a mat that can be found beneath all of the tangible symbols of a Kwanzaa celebration. Kinaras or candle holders are placed on the Mkeka with seven candles to signify the seven principles. Each day, one candle is lit. Equally as important are Mazao (crops), Mahindi (corn), Zawadi (gifts), and a Kikombe cha Umoja (unity cup) – which are also components of a traditional Kwanzaa decoration.

Less than 15 years after its origin, Kwanzaa began to enter mainstream Black America. And since, large numbers of African and African American people from various countries, political affiliations, and religious backgrounds have unified in the celebration of this holiday.

On behalf of the Harvard School of Dental Medicine, Joyous Kwanzaa.

Kaila Daniels

Harvard School of Dental Medicine DMD Candidate ℅ 2025

December 1, 2023

Breaking Barriers in Dental Care: Upholding Ethics and Inclusivity on World AIDS Day

December 1st is World AIDS Day. It is a day of reflection to commemorate those who have died from HIV- and AIDS-related illness. HIV is still a very present world health challenge that requires continued awareness and education to help combat prejudice. Efforts to break barriers in dentistry are integral to the provision of ethical and inclusive oral health care.

Imagine this: a patient in excruciating pain calls for an emergency dental appointment. After a thorough examination, we discover they have a broken molar with no opposing teeth. To resolve the problem, we have two treatment options - extraction or endodontics. However, a review of the patient's medical records reveals that they are HIV-positive, leading to a crucial question - should we refer this patient to another practitioner solely because of their HIV status?

According to the American Dental Association’s Principles of Ethics and Code of Professional Conduct, Section 4.A, refusing treatment solely based on a patient's HIV-positive status goes against ethical guidelines. As dental professionals, we have a responsibility to provide accurate diagnoses, discuss treatment options, and perform necessary treatments without discrimination. Our referrals should be based on the patient's needs, not their HIV status.

The scenario above was adapted from a 2004 Journal of the American Dental Association (JADA) article, titled “Am I Obligated to Treat A Patient Who Is HIV-positive?” The article highlights the vital role of ethics and inclusivity in dental care, ensuring that every patient, regardless of their HIV status, receives dignified, compassionate, and equitable care. As we ponder this ethical dilemma, let's also take a moment to explore another dimension related to World AIDS Day, highlighting its importance.

The Global Impact of HIV/AIDS

HIV/AIDS remains a significant public health challenge that affects millions of people worldwide. According to a WHO report from 2022, an estimated 39 million people were living with HIV, and around 40.4 million lives have been lost globally. Recently, there has been a resurgence of HIV incidence in countries where the trend has been declining. This is a critical public health issue, especially in areas with limited access to care. So, World AIDS Day serves as a constant reminder that the battle against this deadly disease is ongoing and the red ribbon carries a profound message, signifying solidarity, empathy, and our shared commitment to fighting AIDS-related stigma.

The Dental Profession and AIDS Ethics

This day serves as a poignant reminder that oral health affects everyone, regardless of their circumstances. It's not just a day for recognizing a medical condition; it's a powerful platform to advocate for equity and inclusion in healthcare.

As dental professionals, we understand that our ethical responsibilities extend far beyond the clinical setting. We not only maintain patient confidentiality and manage risks effectively but are also committed to providing safe, non-discriminatory, and compassionate care to all, regardless of their HIV status.

In a world where stereotypes and stigmas related to HIV persist, World AIDS Day calls on us to break down these barriers. Every patient deserves dignified, compassionate care, regardless of their HIV/AIDS status. Dentists play a pivotal role in ensuring inclusivity in healthcare. So, as we wear the red ribbon today, let’s remember that it signifies our united promise to raise awareness, break stigma, and provide inclusive and ethical dental care.

Written by Jeeshriya Rajan, DMD26

October 18, 2023

Dear HSDM Community,

October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a time when the community comes together to be educated about breast cancer and understand the importance of its early detection. Breast cancer is the second most common cancer afflicting women in the US. According to the CDC, around 240,000 women are diagnosed with breast cancer, and 42,000 women die from breast cancer annually. It is important to recognize that although breast cancer predominantly affects women, men are also at risk. Annually, approximately 2,100 men are diagnosed and 500 die from breast cancer.

Early detection and diagnosis are critical because they can lead to better prognoses. Therefore, it is important that individuals in the community are aware of early signs and symptoms of breast cancer development to ensure that it is brought to the attention of their healthcare providers. Education about warning signs is one of the central pillars of Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Some signs that may be a cause for concern are: new lumps, pain, discharge, change in size or shape, etc. While it is good to be cautious, understand there are also other medical conditions apart from cancer, that could lead to the aforementioned signs. A conversation with your medical provider can help inform next steps for optimal healthcare.

It is important to be aware of the risk factors for breast cancer. Some common risk factors include aging, BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations, family history of breast or ovarian cancer, physical inactivity, and alcohol consumption. You can lower the risk of developing breast cancer by making sure you maintain an active lifestyle, consume alcohol in moderation, and maintain a healthy weight. Talk to your doctor about additional ways to reduce your risk if you have a family history or inherited BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations. Aside from self-surveillance, it is a good idea to consult your doctor about the appropriate times for breast cancer screenings, so you can both work together to come up with a personalized plan for you.

Now, what’s the story behind the pink ribbon that has become symbolic for breast cancer awareness? Charlotte Haley came from a family largely affected by breast cancer and made peach ribbons in the early 1990s to raise awareness on how only 5% of the National Cancer Institute’s annual budget at the time was devoted towards cancer prevention. Over time, the ribbon gained traction through various media sources, and in October 1992, Estée Lauder included the pink ribbon as part of its cosmetic counters to stand as a symbol of hope and strength, and it has been used ever since as a symbol for breast cancer awareness.

So this month, we should raise awareness by educating ourselves and those around us about breast cancer. Let us take a moment to keep those who were and are currently affected by breast cancer in mind and wear the pink ribbon to help us get one step closer to ending breast cancer.

Written by Amy Jiang Lin, DMD26, ODEIB Ambassador

On behalf of the HSDM Office of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging

October 6, 2023

Mental Health is a Universal Human Right

Dear HSDM Community,

On October 10th, 2023, people everywhere will unite to celebrate World Mental Health Day, an occasion established by the World Foundation of Mental Health in 1948. This year’s theme, “Mental Health is a Universal Human Right,” serves as a powerful focal point for our reflections.

Despite concerted global efforts, individuals with mental health conditions continue to endure a spectrum of human rights violations. World Mental Health Day not only commemorates the strides we have made in improving awareness around mental health and wellness but it also helps frame the work that remains. As healthcare providers, we dedicate our lives to the care of others. Yet, these roles often come with significant stressors and challenges that are seldom discussed openly. The insidious nature of mental diseases can manifest when least expected, making it imperative that we educate ourselves about the signs of mental health issues and available community resources.

There is no better time than now to establish and prioritize practices that safeguard our mental health. The research literature consistently reveals the intricate connection between physical and mental well-being. Systemic conditions such as cancer, diabetes, chronic pain, or cardiovascular disease should not be viewed in isolation from potential mental and emotional struggles experienced by individuals. Being thoughtful to consider mental health and wellness in patient care is good healthcare.

So today, or any day, take a moment to reach out to a friend or neighbor. Reflect upon your own mental health and well-being. Make that phone call to schedule your first therapy session. Dedicate time to do something positive for yourself. Most importantly, remember to honor each component of yourself and your daily life with grace and compassion. It’s never a bad time to prioritize your own well-being, because, let’s be honest, how often do we really do so?

Together, let’s advocate for mental health as a universal human right, not only on World Mental Health Day but every day.

Written by Juanna Xie, DMD Candidate 2025, ODEIB Ambassador
On behalf of the HSDM Office of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging

September 28, 2023

To the HSDM Community,

Hispanic Heritage Month is a time to acknowledge and celebrate our nation’s multicultural community and ever-growing Hispanic population. It is celebrated every year between September 15th and October 15th. It started as a week-long celebration of Hispanic culture and achievement that was proclaimed into law by President Lyndon B. Johnson in 1968. It expanded to encompass an entire month in 1988 by President Ronald Regan to better recognize the contributions Hispanics have made to the United States. One fifth of Americans and six percent of dentists identify as Latino, making them a critical part of our nation’s demographic and our professional community.

Our Hispanic culture is at the core of our identities and we could not be any prouder to call ourselves representatives of the Hispanic community in the dental field. It is an honor to embrace our roots and have such beautiful values and aspects of our culture influencing how we practice dentistry on a daily basis. Our language, our cultural sensitivity, and our warmth when interacting with patients are qualities we owe to our Hispanic background.

Speaking Spanish allows us to communicate and connect with more patients. There is a deeper bond that is built when you speak to patients in their native language. Speaking Spanish with Hispanic patients helps build trust and ensures that our patients fully understand any testing, examination, and treatment plans we do.

The fusion of Indigenous, European, and African cultures in our Latin American countries has made our experiences rich in different traditions, customs, and languages. Our diverse backgrounds make us mindful of our cultural differences and empower us to approach each patient interaction with cultural humility, knowing that all encounters are an opportunity to grow.

Another distinctive feature of our Hispanic culture is our community. The connection of individuals as a unified group plays a key role in each person’s identity, with the most fundamental group being ‘la familia,’ or the family. La familia, chosen or otherwise, is a high priority in Hispanic culture. The welfare and accomplishments of a family member are celebrated as if they were one’s own successes. In this month, we also want to celebrate our familias all over the world, those that are cheering for our efforts, supporting our goals, and making innumerable sacrifices that allow us to study and become leaders in dentistry.

Harvard has become our second home - our second familia. Regardless of culture, religion, ethnicity, race or gender, we hold dear and admire all the endeavors and hard work of our classmates, faculty and staff. During this month, we wish to unify the members of our school to foster a genuine sense of inclusion and belonging.

Ultimately, our Hispanic Heritage has given us so much and we feel a duty to honor and represent how hard-working, caring, and diverse our community is. We are so proud to soon be part of that 6% of Hispanic dentists and we hope the percentage only keeps rising.

Written by Juliana Enriquez, Betssy Rodriguez Ramos, and Claudia Pichardo representing HSDM’s Hispanic Dental Association

On behalf of the HSDM Office of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging

June 19, 2023

To the HSDM/HMS Community,

Monday, June 19, 2023, marks 158 years since enslaved African Americans were deemed free in Texas – the last state of the Confederacy to denounce slavery.

During the Civil War, on January 1, 1863, President Abraham Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation, declaring that all enslaved persons in the Confederate States were freed. Unfortunately, the enforcement of the emancipation earned very little attention until the Civil War ended in 1865. Additionally, this announcement did not apply to border states or areas under Union control. Many states including, but not limited to, Texas, Delaware, and Kentucky lagged far behind in their efforts to free enslaved individuals.

Given an abundance of barriers, former slaves were faced with the challenge of finding true freedom during this period. Some former slaves remained on plantations, some became sharecroppers, and others migrated to the north or west. As you can imagine this was a time of confusion and uncertainty for African American people - on paper, they were deemed free, yet little to nothing was being done to implement these orders.

More than two years after the initial Emancipation Proclamation, the westernmost Confederate State of Texas, on the terms of Union Major General Gordon Granger, enforced the emancipation of its enslaved people Although June 17, 2021 marks the making of Juneteenth as a United States federal holiday, Juneteenth has been celebrated within the African American community for over a century.

Harvard Dental School (currently named Harvard School of Dental Medicine) was founded in 1867, only two years after the Civil War ended. Within the first two years, HSDM admitted its first two Black students – Dr. Tanner Freeman, DMD 1869, and Dr. George Franklin Grant, DMD 1870 – whose parents were former slaves. It was not until 104 years later that HSDM began to see a resurgence of Black graduates, including but not limited to the first Black woman graduate of HSDM, Dr. Dolores Mercedes Franklin, DMD74!

Juneteenth is America’s second Independence Day. After more than 200 years of enslavement, African Americans could seek out opportunities to establish schools, run for political office, reunite with their families, and most importantly, be free. This is a holiday of empowerment, achievement, and freedom.

This period of our history has shaped and continues to shape our society. Further, many institutions, including HSDM, were built on principles of racism and slavery. We urge everyone to see this holiday as an opportunity to reflect on the progress that has been made due to individuals fighting for the freedom and rights of African Americans; but also understand the work that still remains. Take time to appreciate African American history and the experience of African Americans in this country.

Happy Juneteenth!

Kaila Daniels, DMD25

On behalf of the HSDM Office of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging

February 22, 2023

Dear HSDM Community,

Ash Wednesday is celebrated on February 22nd this year, signifying the first day of Lent in many Christian denominations. Lent consists of a 40-day period of fasting, sacrifice, and prayer, in preparation for the Easter holiday. Ash Wednesday is the seventh Wednesday leading up to what is widely observed within the Christian faith as Holy week (Holy Thursday, the celebration of The Last Supper, Good Friday, and Easter Sunday). Easter Sunday is considered a “moveable feast” and typically falls between March 22nd and April 25th each year.

On Ash Wednesday, it is common to see ash crosses worn on the forehead. The ashes serve as a visible symbol of penance, and all are welcome to receive them. This tradition dates back to the 11th Century. The ash is derived from palm branches used on Palm Sunday, which, according to the Christian faith, commemorates the day Jesus entered Jerusalem before he was crucified and resurrected. The ashes are associated with penance, but they also serve as a physical mark of one’s spiritual life.

Ash Wednesday is one of the most widely attended non-Sunday masses of the liturgical year, during which one full meal and no meat are to be consumed. It is common for the Catholic Church to observe a meatless fast on the subsequent Fridays of Lent, while others may additionally choose to give up sweets or social media, for example, to focus on one’s spiritual relationship and demonstrate simplicity. The salient messages of simple living and self-reflection may serve beneficial not only during the season of Lent, but in everyday life as well.

Sincerely,

Office of Diversity and Inclusion

Written by Office of Diversity and Inclusion Fellow Olivia Watrous, DMD23

February 1, 2023

Dear HSDM community,

February 1^st marks a very important day for Muslim women around the world. This day recognizes the millions of Muslim women who choose to wear the hijab. The literal meaning of the term hijab in the Qur’an refers to a partition or curtain. In modern day interpretation, the term hijab is used to describe the veil that Muslim women wear on their heads as a part of their religious duty. Typically, once a female reaches puberty she will begin to wear the hijab. It is important to recognize that this is a personal choice and is left for the woman to decide.

World hijab day was founded by Nazma Khan, who came up with the idea as a way “to foster personal freedom of religious expression and cultural understanding by inviting women from all walks of life to experience the hijab”. The intention behind this day is to counteract stereotypes and misconception behind why Muslim women choose to wear the hijab.

There are many reasons that Muslim women decide to wear the hijab. The most common reason is the understanding of the hijab to be a religious obligation. Others wear the hijab to identify themselves as Muslim and show cultural pride. Many people also wear it as tradition and local customs. There are a variety of reasons why Muslim women choose to wear the hijab and for most people it is a mixture of many different factors.

The hijab has often been misunderstood by people outside of the religion. Many people see the hijab as something that restricts women and is forced upon them. This negative rhetoric has led to drastic measure being taken, such as bans on hijabs. For many women who wear the hijab, the opposite is true, the hijab is seen as empowering and beautiful. This highlights why World hijab day is so important to change the narrative of what the hijab truly is and highlight why millions of women make the choice to wear it.

World hijab day is an important day to be celebrated, not only to promote cultural understanding but also to advocate for women’s rights around the world.
Written by Sufiya Hassan DMD25

References

https://worldhijabday.com/our-story/

https://wonderopolis.org/wonder/why-do-some-women-wear-a-hijab

https://theconversation.com/why-do-muslim-women-wear-a-hijab-10971

January 22, 2023

Dear HSDM community,

Happy Year of the Rabbit!

For some, January 1st marks the start of the new year. But for those using the Lunar calendar, the exact date of the Lunar New Year changes depending on the year. This year, January 22nd, 2023 marks the start of this new year. The Lunar New Year is one of the most important celebrations within East and Southeast Asian cultures, but it is also an international holiday celebrated all over the world. Each country has its own name for the Lunar New Year. For example, in Vietnam, Lunar New Year is called Tết, in China, it is called Chūnjié, and in Korea, it is called Seollal, to name a few.

The Lunar New Year is celebrated all over the world, including here in the U.S. On January 22nd, 2023, you might see Lunar New Year festivals happening throughout communities in Boston, especially Boston’s Chinatown. During these festivals, the streets are usually filled with red banners, lanterns, music, and dragon dances. Dragon dances, firecrackers, and loud music are not only done to bring in good luck for the new year, but to also scare away evil spirits.

The Lunar New Year holiday first began as a time for feasting and to honor household and heavenly deities as well as ancestors. It typically aligns between when the first new moon arrives, which usually happens between the end of January, all the way to the next full moon approximately fifteen days later. The Lunar New Year still includes reuniting with family as well as large feasts, but it is celebrated differently across cultures. For example, in South Korea, Seolla, festivities can last up to three days, whereas in China, the Lunar New Year celebrations lasts fifteen days. Though every culture celebrates the Lunar New Year a little differently, common traditions and customs are still practiced by many associated with the new year. In preparation for the new year, many people will clean their homes prior to the new year to get rid of bad luck and inauspicious spirits from the previous year. Cleaning makes room for good luck and fortune when ringing in the new year. Some will also hold rituals to offer food and gifts to honor their ancestors. Another common tradition is for elders to give to the younger generations ‘red envelopes’ filled with money. This holiday is celebrated to reunite the community with their loved ones and to wish peace, abundance, and prosperity for the new year.

What does the Year of the Rabbit represent?

Each year in the Lunar calendar coincides with one of the 12 zodiac animals with each animal representing different attributes and characteristics. This year represents the Year of the Rabbit which last occurred in 2011, 12 years ago! 2023 is predicted to be the year of hope. The rabbit is associated with longevity, peace, and prosperity.

For those who celebrate the holiday, Happy Lunar New Year and may the Year of the Rabbit be full of peace!

Sincerely,

Office of Diversity, Inclusion & Belonging

Written by Diversity, Inclusion & Belonging Ambassador, Stephanie Yang, DMD Candidate, Class of 2024

References

https://www.usatoday.com/story/life/2023/01/09/when-is-lunar-new-year-2023-year-of-rabbit/10712258002/

https://www.history.com/.amp/topics/holidays/chinese-new-year

https://www.chinahighlights.com/travelguide/chinese-zodiac/rabbit.htm

Where to celebrate Lunar New Year in Boston: https://www.boston.com/things-to-do/festivals-expos/5-ways-to-celebrate-...

January 16, 2023

The Embrace

It’s chilly and damp outside on this January 13th day, but I am not fazed. I am warmed by the anticipation that emanates from those that came to witness the unveiling of “The Embrace”, a monument that celebrates the late civil rights leader, Martin Luther King, Jr. The sculpture by Hank Willis Thomas displays two arms crossed one over the other, a universal symbol of love that is shared between individuals not bound by blood but by the mutual respect for one’s humanity. My emotions fly high on the wave of hope that captures the moment. Freedom reigns indeed when arms are allowed to join, woven in an embrace—a humble and healing expression of inclusion and reconciliation. It was Martin Luther King Jr.’s dream—“I have a dream that…one day right there in Alabama, little Black boys and Black girls will be able to join hands with little white boys and white girls as sisters and brothers.”

Martin Luther King, Jr., was born on January 15, 1929 in Atlanta, Georgia to Michael King, Sr. and Alberta Williams King. He was a social activist who led the civil rights movement responsible for ending legal segregation of African Americans in the United States. King showed us a way forward. His teachings of nonviolent approaches, such as those that coalesced the massive March on Washington in 1963, continue to point the way for us today. Togetherness is a requirement. What will our legacy be? I ask myself as I think of the principles and tenets Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. lived by, fought for, and died trying to instill in the hearts and minds of humanity. His life made a difference. And, I ask, can we embrace the opportunity to do the same?

We still have work to do. The lived experiences of marginalized people of today are signs that Martin Luther King Jr.’s lessons on love, peace, and justice are still relevant and needed. With a history plagued by slavery, racism, privilege, and an insatiable hunger for dominance, the impetus for change is ever present. What will your legacy be in this life’s journey? What choice will you make around upholding the demand for a just humanity?

From where I stand, I see The Embrace as an invitation. An invitation to embrace: the opportunity we have before us to effect change; the principles, tenets, and vision for a better tomorrow, if not today; and the idea that change is possible. The laws of motion dictate that an object at rest remains at rest, and an object in motion remains in motion unless acted on by a force. Martin Luther King Jr.’s leadership was a tour de force towards achieving social justice for all. Let us embrace the capacity we all have as members of the human race to possess a dream and continue to work towards a truly just nation.

December 1, 2022

December 1^st is World AIDS Day, when we commemorate those who have died from HIV- and AIDS-related illness. It serves as a substantial reminder that HIV is still present and that a vital need to raise awareness, challenge prejudice, and improve education around HIV and AIDS persists.

HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) is a virus that damages the cells of the immune system and weakens your ability to fight everyday infections and disease. Transmission occurs following direct contact with certain body fluids (including blood, semen, pre-seminal fluid, rectal fluids, vaginal fluids, and breast milk) that contain HIV from a person with a detectable viral load. Body fluids that contain HIV must enter the bloodstream through mucous membranes, open cuts or sores, or through direct injection (using a needle or syringe) for successful transmission. HIV cannot be passed through healthy, unbroken skin on the outside of the body. Therefore, the virus cannot be spread through the air/water, via insects like mosquitoes and ticks, through shaking hands, hugging, sharing dishes/silverware/drinking glasses, toilets, or drinking fountains. Left untreated, HIV may progress to AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome), the late-stage infection. Currently, no effective cure exists, meaning once an individual gets HIV, it becomes a lifelong challenge.

The combination of scientific advancements, early diagnosis of HIV and proper medical care minimizes the risk of progression to AIDS and allows for long and healthy lives. “Viral load” refers to the amount of virus in the blood of someone diagnosed with HIV. Antiretroviral therapy (ART) reduces viral load to a level undetectable by standard lab tests, assuming the medication is taken as prescribed. Considering AIDS is the most advanced stage of HIV, early diagnosis and treatment with ART is critical for prevention by keeping the viral load low. Accordingly, numerous clinical studies show that a person with an undetectable viral load will not transmit HIV through sexual contact. Other methods of prevention include use of condoms and pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) medicine for those who do not have HIV but may be at higher risk of exposure through sex and intravenous methods.

HIV and AIDS can affect anyone regardless of sexual orientation, race, ethnicity, gender, age, and location. Yet, it is important to acknowledge the disproportionate effect on certain groups. Those assigned male at birth (AMAB) who have sex with others assigned male at birth, those living in communities where more people have HIV, and those who use intravenous drugs are more at risk of getting HIV. Black and Hispanic individuals are disproportionately affected by HIV and AIDS compared to other ethnic and racial groups. Gay and bisexual men and transgender women made up more than 55% of people living with HIV in the United States in 2013. To have a conversation about the impact of HIV and AIDS without acknowledging the global and sociopolitical implications is insensible at minimum and harmful at best. Potential bias and discrimination against LGBTQ+, Black, Hispanic, and other folks living with HIV result in job loss, housing insecurity, lack of healthcare insurance, and discouragement from getting tested or treatment. Furthermore, of individuals who received testing and treatment, only 30% were able to take medication consistently enough to lower the viral load to undetectable levels. There is still work to be done.

This is not to say the United States has not made major advancements against the HIV/AIDS epidemic. For example, current HIV tests are faster and more reliable; and medications are safer, more effective. The expansion of Medicaid and the Affordable Care Act prohibit insurance companies from discriminating against those with pre-existing conditions such as HIV. All folks with HIV are covered under the Americans with Disabilities Act. Although we have laws that protect those living with HIV, these laws vary by state. For example, many states prohibit discrimination based on HIV status in the healthcare setting; friends, family, and employers will not know about an HIV-positive test result unless the individual chooses to disclose it. In Massachusetts, health care workers living with HIV/AIDS are not required by law to notify their patients. However, health professionals should still strive to create a safe, welcoming, and non-judgemental environment for all patients by implementing universal precautions, regardless of medical history. Even so, talking to a healthcare provider about a positive-HIV result can only help them provide their patients with the best possible care–such as avoiding harmful prescriptions interfering with HIV medication. Likewise, a dental provider can have the context to address oral manifestations of HIV, such as candidiasis, caries, xerostomia, and also establish a more comprehensive treatment plan with the primary care provider.

This World AIDS Day, let us come together to challenge racism, prejudice, and misinformation by first reflecting on and questioning our biases. We must then put our efforts towards advocating for increased funding for universal public health programs, promoting effective sex education, challenging the stigma associated with a diagnosis of HIV and AIDS, supporting early testing and treatment, and standing for the well-being of those affected by HIV/AIDS, at every level of society.

References:

https://www.hivlawandpolicy.org/states/massachusetts

https://www.hiv.gov/hiv-basics/living-well-with-hiv/your-legal-rights/limits-on-confidentiality

https://www.hiv.gov/hiv-basics/hiv-testing/just-diagnosed-whats-next/talking-about-your-hiv-status#:~:text=Your%20health%20care%20providers%20(doctors,you%20the%20best%20possible%20care

https://www.hiv.gov/hiv-basics/overview/about-hiv-and-aids/what-are-hiv-and-aids#:~:text=AIDS%20is%20the%20late%20stage,the%20progression%20of%20the%20disease

https://www.hiv.gov/hiv-basics/overview/about-hiv-and-aids/how-is-hiv-transmitted

https://www.worldaidsday.org/about/

https://www.cdc.gov/hiv/basics/whatishiv.html

https://www.hrc.org/resources/hrc-issue-brief-hiv-aids-and-the-lgbt-community

https://www.ada.org/resources/research/science-and-research-institute/oral-health-topics/hiv

November 25, 2022

Native American Heritage Month: Highlighting the Wampanoag Tribe and Efforts to Address the Needs of Indigenous Communities in Massachusetts

Dear HSDM Community,

In addition to the Thanksgiving holiday, November is also Native American Heritage Month. We would like to share with you all the history of the Wampanoag Tribe and the various efforts taking place to address the needs of indigenous communities in Massachusetts. The Wampanoag nation has deep roots within Massachusetts. The name Wampanoag translates to people of the first light. The Wampanoag people have been stewards of the land for ten to fourteen thousand years, since the last great glacier of North America retreated.⁵ Spanning nearly sixty-seven villages, the Wampanoag originally consisted of an estimated forty thousand people.⁶ The people’s land extended from what is now known as Nantucket and Martha’s Vineyard (then known as Natocket and Noepe) to what is present day Providence Rhode Island.⁶

Throughout history, the Wampanoag developed a rich cultural history that influenced daily life. The Wampanoag have a shared creation story involving the benevolent giant Moshup.⁵ One day Moshup was returning from a journey in the mainlands to the headlands of the Aquinnah cliffs. Fatigue from his journey caused Moshup to drag his feet which opened deep tracks in the middle that were slowly filled with water.⁵ Force from the ocean’s waves and tides deepened the opening and created the island of Noepe.⁵ Some say that the red color of the cliffs arose as a result of Moshup killing a whale against the cliffs and painting them their distinctive color.⁵ The giant is and was critical to the people as he taught the people of the island how to fish and many believe he still presides over the people’s destiny today.⁵ The people relied heavily on Moshup’s teaching of fishing as this was a primary source of their diet.⁵ Men tended to the majority of the fishing, while women cultivated the “three sisters:” maize, beans and squash. The Wampanoag had a matrilineal system in which women controlled property and determined lineage. Men led in most of the tribe’s political and warfare decisions.

In their first introduction to colonists, the Wampagnoag were critical in ensuring the colonists survive. Earliest records indicate that English merchants traveled to the New England coast in the sixteenth century where they had their first contact with the Wampanoag.⁷ The Wampanoag taught the colonists how to cultivate the three sisters and how to catch and process fish on the island.⁷ In return, Captain Thomas Hunt captured and sold some twenty Wampanoag men into slavery in Spain around 1614.⁷ As trade between the Wampanoag and English continued, the Wampanoag were exposed to new diseases that decimated the population.⁷ Between 1616 and 1619, the Wampanoag lost a significant portion of their population to disease (some place estimates at 90%).⁷ By 1620, when the Pilgrims arrived in the area, the Wampanoag population had decreased substantially.⁷ A year later, the first Thanksgiving was celebrated with both Wampanoag and colonists in attendance.⁷ Many consider Thanksgiving a day of mourning as it marked both the epidemic that ravaged the people and the beginning of racist and exclusionary policies that would irrevocably change the Wampanoag way of life.

Present day indigenous communities, in Massachusetts, are working towards crucial legislative change that will raise awareness of and address a number of issues faced by indigenous peoples. Members of indigenous communities have established the Massachusetts Indigenous Legislative Agenda to define the key issues and propose solutions at the state level. For the 2021-2022 Massachusetts legislative session, the agenda consisted of five bills.¹ The five bills called for the establishment of Indigenous Peoples’ Day, the protection of Native American heritage, the prohibition of the use of Native American mascots by state public schools, the celebration and teaching of Native American culture and history, and the improvement of educational opportunities for Native American youth.² The Massachusetts legislature did not move any of these proposed bills for voting in the recent November elections, however, the agenda increased awareness and support for the bills, which will be brought back for the 2023 Massachusetts legislative session.

The first bill would replace Columbus Day with Indigenous Peoples Day in the Massachusetts General Laws, thereby acknowledging the harm and pain inflicted on indigenous communities by the celebration of Columbus and the importance of honoring the history and resilience of native peoples. The second bill would ensure that Native American funerary objects, sacred objects, and objects of cultural patrimony held in governmental, municipal or non-profit collections are not sold for profit.

On a related note, the Peabody Museum at Harvard University has recently returned a collection of hair samples taken in the 1930s from about 700 Native American children spanning about 300 tribal nations who were forced to attend government-run boarding schools.³ The museum acknowledges that the hair sample collection was a “part of the history of abuse” propagated by the federal Indian boarding school system. They have apologized for their decades-long possession of the samples and are working on returning the samples to the affected tribes. In response to this apology, the National Native American Boarding School Healing Coalition has stressed the need for “meaningful, urgent and ongoing responses to the extractive and dehumanizing collections practices so commonly seen in anthropological, archaeological and museum sciences.” It is an important first step for institutions like Harvard University to recognize and acknowledge its complex history with colonialism and slavery, and work together with the affected indigenous communities and families to provide reparations.

The third bill would prohibit the use of Native American mascots in Massachusetts public schools. The bill states that the presence of Native American mascots is a civil rights issue because such mascots are likely violating anti-discrimination laws by creating unwelcoming and even hostile learning environments for Native American students. This bill is being proposed after the passing of a similar bill. In 2021, after years of protest and testimony, Native American activists and lawmakers successfully advocated for legislation that created a 19-member state commission to review and recommend changes to the state seal and motto, which depicts a Native American with a saber dangling above their head.⁴

The fourth bill proposes the development of a curriculum on Native American history and culture for Massachusetts public schools. The final bill proposes a permanent commission to improve educational outcomes and opportunities for American Indian and Alaska Native students. Through the Massachusetts Indigenous Legislative Agenda, indigenous communities are speaking up and rallying support for solutions to issues that are affecting current communities as well as future generations to come.

At Harvard, the Wampanoag Outreach Group (WOG) is continuing the relationship between the community and the institution and hoping to increase equity. The Wampanoag have had a relationship with Harvard since its inception. The original charter of Harvard in 1650 indicated that the goal was to “offer education to the English and Indian youth of this country.”⁸ In fact, the earliest graduate of the University was an indigenous man: Caleb Cheeshateamuck in 1655. However, after Caleb’s graduation there were no new indigenous graduates of the institution until 2011, a reflection of the negative and inequitable policies that have ruled the lives of indigenous community members throughout American history. WOG is working in partnership with the Wampanoag to promote equity through oral health. Led by Dr. Brian Swann since 2013, WOG has been working to develop a dental community clinic on Martha’s Vineyard island in order to provide affordable and structurally competent care to the Wampanoag. Students have attended Wampanoag Pow-wow’s, provided care under a MOU between the school and the Wampanoag community and developed sustainable relationships within the community. Students who participate in the program shared that they not only learn much about the history of the people, they also learn about the importance of creating and cultivating trust with vulnerable populations. The work of WOG is exemplified by former DMD student Natalie Wen (DMD ‘20). She shares that “the WOG and [Wampanoag] share a mutualistic relationship. The tribe hopes our current program can exemplify positive change for Native American health, galvanizing more dentists to foster relationships with their patients and appreciate the values of community engagement.” Currently, the student group is working on developing a new MOU as well as developing a sustainable dental home on the island where tribal members can receive continuous oral health care.

Sincerely,

Office of Diversity, Inclusion & Belonging

Written by Diversity, Inclusion and Belonging Ambassadors Aisha Oshilaja (DMD Class of 2024) and Yuying Guo (DMD Class of 2024)

For more resources and further readings, visit Diversifying Your Cultural Reading!

References:

October 27, 2022

Dear HSDM Community,

The Hindu festival Diwali, also known as the “Festival of Lights,” is one of the most widely celebrated religious festivals. Diwali is a national holiday in many countries, and it is celebrated by millions of Hindus, Jains, and Sikhs and some Buddhists all over the world. It is a five-day festival that takes place every year between October and November to symbolize the victory of light over darkness. Although Diwali is primary an Indian festival, it is also widely observed in Malaysia, Singapore, Nepal, Fiji, United Kingdom, Australia, Guyana, Trinidad and Tobago, South Africa, and Kenya.

During Diwali, many shops, streets, and homes will be brightly illuminated with clay lamps, candles, and firecrackers as a metaphor for the light of knowledge and the victory of light over darkness. It is typically celebrated by prayer, socializing, exchanging gifts with family and friends and enjoying delicious feasts together as a family. Diwali commemorates many important events for Hindus. It honors the return of Lord Rama and Sita to Ayodhya from their 14-year exile after defeating the demon king Ravana. It is also associated with the Goddess Lakshmi who is the Goddess of good fortune, prosperity, wealth, and fertility. In some parts of India, especially in Bengal, the festival is dedicated to the worship of the Goddess Kali who represents the destruction of evil. While the significance of Diwali may vary in accordance with where people live, the common theme is always the victory of light over darkness.

The first day of Diwali is called Dhanteras. On this day, it is tradition to clean the family home. Many Hindus also honor Lakshmi on this day, the Goddess of wealth and fortune. Choti Diwali is the second day of the festival. Many people decorate their homes, create rangoli patterns, which are colorful arrangements of sand and powder, and begin to light clay lamps. The third day of Diwali is the main day of the festival when clay lamps, candles, fireworks, and feasts are common. People also pray to the Goddess Lakshmi on this day. The fourth day of the festival is also the first day of the new year in Hindu tradition. The fifth day of the festival is Bhai Dooj. It celebrates the special bond shared by siblings.

Diwali has grown in increasing prominence since the 2006 Diwali episode of the TV show “The Office.” This year, Diwali has received even more attention in local, national, and international discourse. For the first time ever, many school districts throughout the United States are beginning to give their students a day off from school for Diwali. Eric Adams, Mayor of NYC, announced that Diwali will be an official school holiday starting from 2023. This year, President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris have hosted the largest Diwali reception at the White House to date. Abroad, photos taken in 2020 of newly elected British Prime Minister, Rishi Sanuk, lighting oil lamps and making Rangoli patterns outside of 11 Downing Street to celebrate Diwali widely circulated the internet and sparked positive discourse about the holiday after he was announced as the next Prime Minister of the UK on Diwali day in 2022.

Growing up, I remember trying to balance my celebrations of the holiday with going to school, homework, and exams. These milestones are important to recognize the traditions of different faiths and increase awareness of different cultures and show these communities that they are seen. In a time where increasing global conflict is becoming more prevalent, let us remember to carry the sentiment of Diwali throughout the year and how to turn on our own inner light. In our community interactions, let us remember to value our diversity and come together to celebrate and champion the good in the world.

Office of Diversity and Inclusion

Written by Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging Ambassador Sapna Nath, DMD24

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June 14, 2022

Dear HSDM Community,

This Sunday, June 19, 2022, marks 157 years since enslaved African Americans were deemed free in Texas - the last state of the Confederacy to denounce slavery.

More than two years after the initial Emancipation Proclamation, the westernmost Confederate State of Texas, on the terms of Union Major General Gordon Granger, enforced the emancipation of its slaves. The African American community has celebrated this day for over a century, but as of June 17, 2021, this day marks a United States federal holiday and is most commonly recognized by the name of Juneteenth.

HSDM was founded in 1867, only two years after the Civil War ended. Within the first two years, HSDM admitted its first two black male students - whose parents were former slaves. It was not until 104 years after this that HSDM saw its next black graduates, which included the first black female HSDM graduate!

This period of our history has shaped and continues to shape our society. Further, numerous institutions, including ours, were built on principles of racism and slavery. We urge everyone, inclusive of all races and ethnicities, to take this holiday as an opportunity to reflect on how far this country has come and how much further this country has to go. Take time to appreciate African American history and the experience of African Americans in this country.

On behalf of the HSDM Office of Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging, Happy Juneteenth.

Sincerely,

Office of Diversity and Inclusion
Written by Diversity, Inclusion and Belonging Ambassador Kaila Daniels, DMD25

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May 18, 2022

Dear HSDM Community,

This month, May, is the Asian American and Pacific Islander (“AAPI”) Heritage Month, when we celebrate the historical and cultural contributions of individuals and groups of Asian and Pacific Islander descent to the United States. AAPI is an umbrella term which includes cultures across the entire Asian continent—including the East, Southeast and South Asians well as the Pacific Islands of Melanesia, Micronesia and Polynesia.

Celebration of the AAPI Heritage Month traces back to the mid1970s, when Jeanie Jew, a former Capitol Hill staffer, first proposed the idea of designating a month to recognize Asian Americans. Initially, the month of May was selected for two reasons: First, to commemorate the arrival of the first-known Japanese immigrant to the U.S. on May 7, 1843; secondly, to honor the completion of the transcontinental railroad on May 10, 1869 — the building of which up to 20,000 Chinese workers participated in. Today, the AAPI Heritage Month celebrates historical and cultural contributions made by the entire AAPI community.

Each year, the Federal Asian Pacific American Council (“FAPAC”) selects a theme for the AAPI Heritage Month. This year, FAPAC has set the theme as, “Advancing Leaders Through Collaboration.” Throughout May, FAPAC will hold various leadership training programs designed to foster collaboration, diversity, transparency, and inclusion within the local and federal governments. We should take example from the FAPAC to embrace the same values as we aspire to hold various leadership positions within the healthcare sector.

On a solemn note, during the Covid-19 pandemic, racist and xenophobic rhetoric about the origins of the virus led to a spike in anti-Asian racism and violence. AAPI people of all ages and cultures were verbally and physically harassed and even murdered in cities across the United States. In response, the “Stop AAPI Hate coalition” was launched on March 19, 2020, and the movement is a direct response to violence, hate, harassment, discrimination, shunning and bullying of AAPI people. In January 2021, the White House released a “Memorandum Condemning and Combating Racism, Xenophobia, and Intolerance Against Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders in the United States,” proposing ways to prevent discrimination, harassment, bullying, and hate crimes against AAPI individuals.

On a positive note, Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders have and continue to contribute to many facets of American culture and society, including medicine and science, literature and art, sports and recreation. In media, the AAPI people, stories, and traditions have become more accessible and visible in recent years. For instance, in 2021, Marvel released and debuted their first Asian superhero in, “Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings”, and in 2019, “Parasite” —a film directed by the South Korean director, Bong Joon Ho— won the Academy Award for Best Picture.

For this year’s AAPI Heritage Month, how about enjoying various works created by Asians and Asian Pacific Americans? A far from non-exhaustive list includes : Netflix shows (“Squid Game”), memoirs (“Know My Name”), films (“Everything Everywhere All at Once”, “Nomadland”, “Crazy Rich Asians”, “Parasite”), graphic novels (“They Called Us Enemy)”, conversational podcast (“Bamboo and Glass”), narrative podcasts (“Moonface”), TV show (“The Good Place”) and essays (“Trick Mirror”). I hope you get an opportunity to experience the vast talent and wisdom that Asians and Asian Pacific Americans share with the world.

Sincerely,

Office of Diversity and Inclusion
Written by Diversity, Inclusion and Belonging Ambassador Dahee Chung, DMD24

Reference

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April 11, 2022

Dear HSDM Community,

The month of Ramadan is the ninth month of the Lunar calendar and is the holiest month of the year for most Muslims. It is a time when Muslims across the globe gather together to strengthen community bonds while reflecting on our personal relationship with our environment and spirituality.

It is believed that in early 600 AD, the angel Gabriel descended to the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and revealed to him the beginnings of the Qu’ran, the Muslim holy book. Muslims fast as a way to honor this miracle and continue to take note of the milestone. Fasting during the month of Ramadan is also one of the central pillars of the faith. Thus, all able-bodied Muslim adults are encouraged to fast during this time.

During the month of Ramadan, Muslims are commanded to fast from sunrise to sunset. Traditionally, there has been much focus on the abstinence of food and drink during this period. However, fasting is generally about more than simply skipping lunch and avoiding snacks. It is a time to reflect on one’s religious journey and deeply consider how one is interacting with those around them. During fasting periods, Muslims must abstain from food, drink, negative comments, foul language and other aspects of life that are sometimes done without thinking. Ramadan is a time to unplug and step back to perhaps gain a different perspective on the happenings of one’s own life. Additionally due to the origins of the month, many Muslims will spend time reading, understanding and memorizing the Qu’ran.

Since Islam follows a lunar calendar, the time period for the month is constantly changing. This year Ramadan falls in April, a time of transition from winter to spring. Ramadan itself is a month of pause where people are asked to remember those who are often overlooked, such as those without sufficient food/drink, those in deep need and people who simply do not have a voice to speak on the injustices and trauma they continue to experience. This year, the timing of Ramadan encourages us to find the lulls in our busy lives and reflect on the ways we can utilize times of pause and reflection for growth.

As healthcare providers we must ask ourselves, how we will find ways to create an open and inclusive practice for our patients. Patients may have concerns about water-based procedures and may want to change the timing of an appointment to avoid this time of the year. Ask questions and learn what is most important to your patient, as what is true for one fasting patient may not be true for the next.

While it will be Muslims fasting, the timing of this Ramadan encourages Muslims and non-Muslims alike to take pause. How will we find ways to extend empathy to those around us who we have overlooked? How will we find time to think about our spirituality and ask ourselves the questions we may have been too busy to ask before?

Sincerely,

Office of Diversity and Inclusion
Written by Diversity, Inclusion and Belonging Ambassador Aisha Oshilaja, DMD24

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March 18, 2022

Dear HSDM Community,

The Hindu festival Holi, also known as the festival of colors, marks the beginning of the spring harvest season in India. Holi is a two-day festival and is one of the most significant holidays for Hindus. It is also celebrated by the Hindu diaspora worldwide, including in countries such as the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, South Africa, Trinidad and Tobago, and Australia.

The festival marks Lord Vishnu's triumph over King Hiranyakashipu, who killed anyone who disobeyed him or worshiped other Gods. The festival's first day is known as Choti Holi and is marked by celebrants making neighborhood bonfires. The second day is Rangwali Holi, a free-for-all festival of colors. Celebrations in northern India tend to be more colorful and vivid, while celebrations in the South focus more on religion and temple rituals.

On Holi, people of all ages and backgrounds come together to throw dry or wet paint, powdered color, and water. Singing, dancing, and neighborhood parties are commonplace as music and laughter ring through the streets. Entire towns will turn red, green, and purple as people throw colored powder into the air. Friends, family, and even strangers are all welcomed targets of these festivities.

Holi celebrates the triumph of good over evil and has come to symbolize love and celebrate the colors of life as Spring arrives. It unites people, cultures, and strangers together. In India and globally, celebrating the festival has transcended religious boundaries as it brings people of different nationalities, faiths, and backgrounds together to celebrate. It is a time to meet others, enjoy good food, play and laugh, forget and forgive, and repair broken relationships. In fact, Holi celebrations have become a staple event in the Spring at many universities throughout the United States.

With decreasing COVID-19 cases in India and around the world, millions of people are gearing up to celebrate this year in an even bigger celebration. Around the world, strangers will turn to friends as Holi festivities begin. Holi begs us to pause and reflect on how we can create more inclusive communities where everyone is welcome throughout the year. Applying this sentiment to healthcare, we must ask ourselves how we can also foster increasing acceptance, diversity, and cross-cultural care across our day-to-day patient interactions and practice.

Sincerely,

Office of Diversity and Inclusion
Written by Diversity and Inclusion Ambassador Sapna Nath, DMD24

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February 28, 2022

Dear HSDM Community,

In honor of National Children’s Dental Health Month, we would like to highlight the efforts of HSDM students in addressing children’s oral health needs in the Boston/Cambridge community, and how they overcame the challenges brought by the COVID-19 pandemic. The Action for Children and Teenagers in Oral Health Need (ACTION) program was founded in 2009 by HSDM pre-doctoral students and HSDM faculty member Dr. David Okuji in collaboration with the Cambridge Health Alliance Windsor Street Dental Clinic (WSDC) and Dr. Brian Swann, Chief of Oral Health and Principal Investigator. The ACTION program operates monthly clinics at WSDC, where HSDM students serve as providers, assistants, and coordinators. ACTION’s mission is to help reduce disparities in access to oral health care through offering a sustainable, low-cost clinic. In ACTION clinics, HSDM students, General Practice Residents (GPR), WSDC attending dentists, and WSDC clinic staff all collaborate to offer comprehensive oral healthcare to pediatric patients who come from disadvantaged backgrounds. Furthermore, they serve those from low-income households, racial/ethnic minorities, and patients with recent immigrant status. It is very important to highlight that these populations are also those that are disproportionately affected by dental caries, the most prevalent childhood disease. This is due to a plethora of reasons, with the overarching reason being the low percentage of dental providers and dental offices that accept patients with public insurance and patient knowledge regarding disease prevention (low health literacy). All of the patients who are seen during ACTION clinic are enrollees in Massachusetts Medicaid, commonly known as MassHealth. In 2014, 47% of children enrolled in MassHealth did not see a dentist. These same children were found to visit the emergency department for tooth-related illness at a rate much higher than children who were insured by private insurance.¹

The strength of ACTION lies in the collaborative effort of those who make the program possible and the positive impact made on children’s oral health. During ACTION clinics, first and second year pre-doctoral students perform oral health education for patients and assist third and fourth year pre-doctoral student dental providers with dental procedures. ACTION student coordinators, consisting of 4-5 pre-doctoral students from each class year, perform clinical, operational, and administrative duties to ensure the success of each clinic session. All patients are evaluated for caries risk and provided a comprehensive treatment plan. Evidence-based interventions are provided, including sealants, topical fluoride varnish, silver diamine fluoride application, as well as definitive care, including resin restorations, stainless steel crowns, pulpotomies, and extractions.

While reflecting on her experience as a provider for ACTION, Shaida Parsaei, a third year ACTION coordinator, emphasizes the program’s community-driven model of care and the invaluable experiences ACTION offers to student volunteers.

“To be able to be a part of creating a dental home for a population of patients who would otherwise receive no dental care has been humbling to say the least. One of the most heartwarming stories I carry with me is treating a young girl who came to ACTION with many oral health needs. Initially, she was very hesitant and afraid, but after a few conversations, she warmed up to us, allowing us to complete her care. At the end of her visit, she told me she wants to be a dentist when she grows up. Being able to serve the community in this capacity has been one of the highlights of my dental school education as I aspire to continue providing care in underserved communities in the future.”

Volunteers have treated an average of 22 patients per session with each patient receiving an average of $242 in services, which translates to $128 per insurance claim under MassHealth. To this date, more than 2,500 patient visits have taken place through the ACTION clinic, and this number will only continue to grow. By accepting Medicaid patients and maximizing the existing resources of WSDC and student volunteers, ACTION is able to address public health needs in the pediatric population of the Boston/Cambridge community and provide pre-doctoral students with the opportunity to learn more about pediatric dentistry and community-based health promotion.

Although ACTION was built with a strong foundation and sustainable plans were set to ensure clinic continuity after graduation of many generations of predoctoral students, new challenges always arise. One such challenge was responding to the COVID-19 pandemic. Because of all the uncertainty the pandemic brought, and patient and volunteer safety concerns, the ACTION clinic was closed for a few months. Coordinators worked diligently with the WSDC attendings to incorporate new protocols in order to reopen the clinic in phases. New and improved infection control and protective equipment, on-site screenings and expedited COVID-19 testing for aerosol generating procedures, and social distancing protocols were a few of many new changes implemented at the clinic. Additionally, teledentistry was introduced for the first time to help the clinic reinforce oral hygiene and provide nutritional guidance, as well as enable the clinic to triage patients they had not seen for months.

The ACTION clinic reopened with reduced capacity -- only 2 of the 6 available operatories could be in use. As a result, the coordinators were faced with the difficult task of deciding which patients to resume care for first. They ultimately designed a protocol in which patients were assigned to three groups: highest priority, indicated and needed care, and resume routine care. With a phased approach to full resumption based on risk management, the ACTION clinic continued providing care in the clinic and remotely through teledentistry consultations.

Although ACTION still has not returned to full capacity, we encourage all students to volunteer at ACTION and experience the provision of oral health care in a community dental setting. We hope the ACTION program inspires you to take an active role in the communities you are a part of now and in the future.

Sincerely,

Office of Diversity, Inclusion & Belonging Ambassadors Shaida Parsaei (DMD Class of 2023), Yuying Guo (DMD Class of 2024), and Kaila Daniels (DMD Class of 2025)

References:

Lee, Hyewon, Aram Kim, David M Okuji, Lisa Simon, and Brian J Swann. “Action for Children and Teenagers in Oral Health Need (ACTION): A Self-Sustaining Student Volunteer Model of Pediatric Dental Care in an Underserved Community” 4 (2018): 6.

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February 2022

Dear HSDM Community,

February marks the beginning of Black History Month, a month-long celebration of the contributions and achievements by African Americans as well as a time to reflect upon and recognize their pivotal role in history. Black History Month has been celebrated since 1976 in the U.S., the month of February chosen to coincide with Frederick Douglass’ and Abraham Lincoln’s birthdays. This celebration originated as “Negro History Week” established by Carter G. Woodson, which subsequently evolved into Black History Month following the Civil Rights Movement in the 1960s. In 1976, President Gerald Ford officially announced this celebration, urging the public to “seize the opportunity to honor the too-often neglected accomplishments of Black Americans in every area of endeavor throughout our history.” Since this time, each President has instituted a theme which underlies the ways in which we honor Black History Month, the theme of this month being Black Health and Wellness. This theme is intended to acknowledge the “legacy both of Black scholars and medical practitioners, but also other ways of knowing throughout the African Diaspora.”

With this theme in mind, it is important to recognize the contributions of Black scholars who have revolutionized the way in which we practice medicine, and to advocate for a more diverse medical workforce in order to decrease disparate health outcomes. In 2020, Harvard Medical School renamed the formerly labeled Holmes Academic Society, which was driven by a student-led petition with over 1000 signatures calling out Holmes’ blatant acts of racism towards Black and Indigenous people. The society was then renamed to honor the late Dr. William Augustus Hinton, who was a former HMS graduate and clinical professor of bacteriology and immunology. Dr. Hinton created a new diagnostic blood test for syphilis which was eventually adopted by the U.S. Public Health Service. The contributions of Black Americans to the practice of medicine have been crucial and inspiring, from Louis T. Wright, who developed a technique for vaccinating soldiers against smallpox and investigated the treatment of humans with tetracycline, to Ben Carson, who successfully completed the first surgical separation of conjoined twins. Black Americans have and continue to shape not only the field of medicine but American history at large, and these achievements should be celebrated year round.

In regards to the theme of health and wellness, this not only encompasses physical health, but mental and emotional well-being as well. In present day, social media has, in some ways, helped to normalize the discussion about mental health and illness. However, there are still structural barriers to accessing culturally competent treatment for mental health conditions, as only 1 in 3 Black adults who need mental health care actually receive it. As a result, various initiatives have been launched with a focus on increasing access to mental health care, including Therapy for Black Girls, which offers a listing of mental health services across the world to Black women and girls, as well as Therapy for Black Men, a database dedicated to connecting Black Men with professionals equipped to support men of color. As health professionals, it is important to screen for mental health conditions, normalize the conversation, and help to spread awareness about the resources that are available.

During Black History Month and beyond, I urge you to reflect upon and learn more about the rich and vital role Black Americans have played in US history, as Black history is American history.

Resources:

Events celebrating Black History Month in Boston.
Nonprofits uplifting Black voices and how to submit a donation.
A 28-day virtual exhibition that celebrates the legacies of Black LGBTQ leaders and Black leaders with disability.

Sincerely,

Office of Diversity and Inclusion

Written by Diversity and Inclusion Ambassador Olivia Watrous, DMD23

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February 8, 2022

Dear HSDM Community,

Along with Black History Month, February also serves as National Children’s Dental Health Month. This health observance emphasizes the importance of good oral health care in children. To this day, caries remains the most chronic disease of childhood, even though it is preventable. As such, the necessity of adequate and consistent oral health up-keep is imperative - specifically in children and adolescents.

To put it simply, caries begins due to an imbalance between the host’s protective factors, oral microflora, diet and time. While adults can understand the appropriate actions needed to teeter in favor of caries protection, children need guidance and support to do the same. As a result, improving dental health in children is largely done by educating the adults who care for them.

Encouraging greater chances of children having healthy teeth and mouths begins before birth. Studies have shown that when a mother properly cares for their own mouth while they are pregnant, this decreases the chances of their children struggling down the line. This is because certain bacteria, such as Streptococcous mutans, which are primarily responsible for cavity formation, can be transferable from mother to child. For example, when a parent kisses their child or chews their food for them, they can pass these bacteria on. This is referred to as vertical transmission. Furthermore, periodontal disease in expecting mothers has been linked to a 25% increased rate of pre-term delivery and low birth weight babies. As a result, oral hygiene should begin before babies even have their first teeth. It is important that caregivers wipe the gums of babies after every meal and that children are not put to sleep with a bottle of milk to keep the delicate balance of the oral microbiome stable. Any form of milk, whether it is breast milk or formula, has sugar which can lead to an increased risk of caries. Avoiding these practices will in turn create a sustainable environment for teeth to come into.

As children grow, these oral hygiene practices should as well. A dental home should be developed for children between the age of six months to one year. Once teeth have come in, children older than two years of age should begin brushing their teeth twice a day with toothpaste containing fluoride with close guidance and follow up by the caregiver. If there are any reservations regarding fluoride use, such as allergies to pine-nuts or questions about long term effects, these should be discussed with a dental or medical provider. Additionally, limiting drinks and food with added sugar not only keeps the dreaded ‘sugar-rush’ at bay, but also keeps their teeth and mouth healthier. Encouraging children to eat whole foods for snacks and drink water rather than juice or soda will not only create greater overall health but also sustain their dental health. In fact, pediatricians recommend no sugary drinks at all for children.

Children’s dental health deserves continued emphasis and resources. Many times, parents may struggle to raise their children in environments that allow their oral health to thrive. This can be due to various reasons, such as cultural nuances and not having the necessary information from their healthcare providers. There are many ways that the dental community can increase awareness, including educating new and expecting parents on how to appropriately care for their children’s mouth, ensuring that all healthcare providers have a baseline knowledge of oral health, increasing community water fluoridation programs, running school dental sealant programs and most importantly, increasing access to dental care for all individuals. If you are looking to get involved here at HSDM, volunteer at monthly ACTION clinics that take place at the Cambridge Health Alliance or come join us at the annual Give Kids a Smile (GKAS) day that will be held on February 12^th, 2022!

Sincerely,

Office of Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging

Written by Diversity, Inclusion and Belonging Ambassador Rubee Sandhu, DMD 2023

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February 1, 2022

Dear HSDM Community,

Lunar New Year 2022 takes place on Tuesday, February 1st this year. The exact timing of the holiday differs each year because the new year is marked by the lunar calendar, instead of the solar one. The festival is celebrated in China and other Asian countries on the first new moon on the lunar calendar and lasts for about 2 weeks until the end of the first full moon, which is known as the Lantern Festival.

Lunar New Year is also known as Chinese Chunjie, Vietnamese Tet, Korean Solnal, Tibetan Losar, and Spring Festival. Each country and region celebrates Lunar New Year with their own unique customs. Every year in the Chinese calendar is represented by one of the 12 zodiac animals, each representing different traits. 2022 is the year of the tiger, associated with strength, courage, and ambition.

Lunar New Year is a holiday that exists as far back as the 14th century BC during the Shang Dynasty in China and began as a time to honor ancestors and heavenly deities. Today, it is still filled with many traditions and customs. Each year before the Spring Festival, houses thoroughly cleaned and decorated to wipe away “bad luck” that may be lingering inside, as preparation to invite good luck. Family members also receive red envelopes containing small sums of money. The red color symbolizes good luck, wards off evil spirits, and is the main color for the festival. Families honor the dead by visiting ancestors’ graves and offer rituals to them. Many dances and fireworks are also prevalent throughout the holidays. Lion and dragon dances are performed to bring prosperity and good luck for the upcoming year, and setting off firecrackers scares away evil.

In addition to the traditions, Lunar New Year commonly represents feasting and reuniting with one’s family. Food is such an integral part of the culture, and the foods chosen all have auspicious meanings. For instance, fish in Chinese sounds like surplus and symbolizes abundance. Niangao is a type of glutinous rice cake and symbolizes a higher income or position. Sweet rice balls are eaten to symbolize family togetherness. Dumplings are also eaten to symbolize wealth, as they are shaped like the ancient silver ingots. Certain fruits like oranges are also eaten and symbolize fullness and wealth.

Lunar New Year is typically the largest holiday of the year for the families in these countries. In fact, there are about 2 billion people across the world who celebrate this holiday! This time of year is the most important time for families, as Lunar New Year is often likened to Christmas, Thanksgiving, and New Years in the Western culture combined. Every year, families travel by buses, trains, and planes to see each other, but there have been restrictions in place in China these years due to the various Omicron and Delta related outbreaks.

Currently in Asia, many big cities advise residents against traveling for the holiday. This means that once again Lunar New Year will look different for those celebrating it across the world. Many families will be separated again for Lunar New Year, but there will certainly be online Lion dance parades for people to enjoy and smaller sized family dinners gatherings.

To those who celebrate it, Happy Lunar New Year! Wishing you a prosperous and healthy Year of the Tiger.

Sincerely,

Office of Diversity and Inclusion
Written by Diversity, Inclusion and Belonging Ambassador Franklin Zhang, DMD23

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January 17, 2022

Dear HSDM Community,

Often, we find ourselves celebrating heroes in death, who we did not recognize enough in life. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. is one such hero. A champion of the civil rights movement and one of the major leaders of voting rights, Dr. King fought tirelessly for the legal and social integration of Black and underrepresented peoples in the United States. Decades later we honor the work that he dedicated his life to on his birthday.

Throughout his life, MLK challenged the masses to question their lived experiences and seek justice when too often injustice is the status quo. Born January 15, 1929, King (originally named Michael) came of age in Atlanta, Georgia where Jim Crow was the law of the land. This time period was marked by extreme separation of the races supported by a complicated intertwining of law and violence. Historians note that one of King’s earliest experiences of this culture occurred when he was just six years of age. He had a young white playmate who informed him that they could no longer play together as his friend was to attend a segregated school that King could not enter. King explained that this memory was one that stayed with him over the years and most likely informed his work.

While the lesson of place and status was taught early, the goal of the culture was to continue to “educate,” for the length of a person’s life. Thus, King continued to experience racism and injustice throughout his life eventually prompting him to dedicate his career to fighting against it. King obtained his doctorate degree right here in Boston. He moved back to the south with his wife Coretta and quickly became known as a commanding orator. In December 1955, the Montgomery Improvement Association elected King as president and looked to him to organize protests and boycotts against the Montgomery city buses. While King’s work was based in the American south, he collaborated with activists such as Ceaser Chavez to develop strategies to improve the working, health and housing conditions of the general public. In the 1960s, King met with President Lyndon Johnson to support the passage of bills such as voting rights, Medicare, and formal desegregation of public spaces. For years, King worked tirelessly with activists and organizers to help America realize the dream it set forth so long ago when the declaration put into writing the political and legal equality of all citizens.

It is crucial that we view King’s life and actions as more than a history lesson. The act of writing civil rights into law ensured that we live in a society where discrimination on the basis of sex, race, gender orientation, and even religion is no longer acceptable today. At HSDM, we strive to support the oral health of the community. Today, we have witnessed Covid-19 disrupt our personal and professional lives. We have watched as Covid-19 highlighted, and in some cases, exacerbated existing healthcare disparities. Moments like this beg us to reflect on MLK’s quote: “Of all the forms of inequality, injustice in healthcare is the most shocking and inhumane.” Much like the current health crisis, this quote forces us to ask what are we doing to combat the injustices, conscious and unconscious, that are baked into our healthcare system? Throughout MLK’s life, he used all the tools, education, and knowledge at his disposal to fight injustice and create a more equitable society. How do you plan to use your platform to eliminate injustice in healthcare?

For Further Reading about the Civil Rights Movement and MLK’s Life:

Sincerely,

Office of Diversity and Inclusion
Written by Aisha Oshilaja Diversity and Inclusion Ambassador

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December 25, 2021

Dear HSDM Community,

December 25th marks the holiday of Christmas, which has been federally observed in the United States since 1870. While many Christmas traditions have origins rooted in religion, Christmas is a cultural celebration associated with secular customs as well. Commonplace traditions include decorating Christmas trees, gift-giving, and hosting gatherings with family and friends.

For those who practice Christianity, Christmas commemorates the birth of Jesus Christ, the revered spiritual leader whose teachings are foundational to the religion. However, it was not until the fourth century that his birth was declared a holiday, and the date of December 25 is speculated to have been chosen by Pope Julius I. At this time, the holiday was referred to as the Feast of the Nativity, and its celebration spread from Rome to Egypt and to England by the conclusion of the sixth century. The early 17th century was met with significant religious reform, and as a result, the ways in which Christmas was celebrated changed drastically. In 1630, English Puritans who came to America asserted that there was no biblical mention of celebrating the birth of Jesus, and therefore Christmas was not observed in early America. In fact, between 1659 and 1681, Christmas celebration was actually outlawed in Boston and subject to a fine.

It wasn’t until the 19th century, in June of 1870, that Christmas became a federal holiday, sparking the resurgence of Christmas traditions. Decorating Christmas trees is a tradition that originated in Germany during the Middle Ages, and it is estimated that about 30 million real Christmas trees are sold annually in the United States alone. Similarly, the use of advent calendars also began in Germany as a means for children to count down to Christmas while reading a passage from the Bible each day. As this tradition gained immense popularity, secular calendars were also created and include daily gifts such as chocolate to mark the days preceding Christmas. In addition, the anticipated arrival of Santa Claus can be traced back to a monk named Saint Nicolas who dedicated his time and inherited wealth to helping those who were ill and those living in poverty. He subsequently became known as the protector of children and was introduced into American popular culture in the 18th century. In New York, Dutch families had gathered to commemorate the anniversary of Saint Nicolas’ death, referred to as “Sinter Klass” in Dutch, and this was the abbreviation from which Santa Claus was derived.

As another holiday season approaches during the age of the pandemic, we are reminded of the importance of abiding by public health recommendations in order to celebrate with loved ones while staying safe and healthy. Though there may be modifications in the observance of Christmas this year, the spirit of the holiday and its symbolism remain intact.

Sincerely,

Office of Diversity and Inclusion
Written by Diversity and Inclusion Fellow Olivia Watrous, DMD23

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December 3, 2021

Dear HSDM Community,

December 3rd marks International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD), a UN day that is observed every year to raise awareness and promote the rights and perspectives of persons with disabilities (PwD). PwD is a person who experiences any mobility, intellectual, cognitive, development, sensory or other physical or mental impairments, which limits one or more major life activities. More than 1 billion people globally experience disability, which is 15% of the world’s population. WHO joins the UN in observing this day every year, reinforcing the importance of the rights and well-being of PwDs. The annual observance of IDPD was established in 1992 by the United Nations General Assembly resolution 47/3. Every year, during the annual celebration of PwDs, WHO decides on a theme and develops evidence-based advocacy materials that are disseminated among different partners in government and around the world. This year, the theme is “Fighting for rights in the post-COVID era.”

Since the pandemic has started, the world has witnessed marginalized communities suffer and pre-existing disparities worsen during the COVID-19 crisis. As the world has witnessed, the PwDs have been disproportionately affected by the pandemic and have faced unique challenges. Some examples include difficulty in engaging in preventative measures, disruptions to health services they are dependent on, or even having been denied care through not having their support persons with them. Even under normal circumstances, PwDs are more likely to experience disadvantage, discrimination, and difficulties in accessing health care and rehabilitation services. The 2021 theme is imperative in that it highlights the importance of disability inclusion and the urgency of creating an inclusive approach that ensures that PwDs are not left behind. As governments and international leaders across the world build plans to address the COVID-19 crisis, it is essential that disability inclusion is emphasized and implemented.

IDPD is about listening, learning, and advocating to those that are part of the disability community. This is an opportunity for all of us to think about how we can learn about the perspectives of PwDs and change the narrative of living with a disability. The HMS and HSDM community has made a commitment to students with disabilities, providing students with appropriate support and services to ensure an accessible and welcoming learning environment through the Office of Disability Services. Different organizations on-campus like the Disabilities in Medicine and Dentistry Working Group are working to advance curricular efforts on disability at HMS/HSDM, support students with disabilities, and create community amongst people who care about disability. There is still so much more we can learn and incorporate into our changing community at HMS/HSDM.

Here are some resources on how you can take action this IDPD:

How to celebrate IDPD 2021 in the workplace
Take a look at “Disability Perspectives: A Film Series,” a project highlighting the lived experiences and challenges of people with disabilities
Learn more about IDPD and more resources/services

Sincerely,

Office of Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging

Written by Diversity, Inclusion and Belonging Ambassador Stephanie Yang, DMD 2024

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November 2021

Dear HSDM Community,

Martha’s Vineyard is well known in the Northeast as a coveted summer vacation spot – a getaway from the hustle and bustle of the city, but few know that the island is also home to the Wampanoag Tribe of Gay Head (Aquinnah). Located on the southwest tip of Martha’s Vineyard, a community center and an athletic center proudly live on the tribe’s ancestral lands serving as a gathering place for tribal members and a reminder to others of the land’s culturally rich and significant history and presence of the original peoples who tended and cooperated with the land.

While visiting Martha’s Vineyard in October of 2021, the HSDM Wampanoag Outreach Group had the privilege to visit the tribal lands, learn about the fascinating legends of Gay Head Cliffs, and meet Tribal members. At each stop of the trip, the tremendous importance of community was apparent. There was an emphasis on buildings in which tribal members gather, preserving the tight-knit culture that is characteristic of the Wampanoag Nation. Annual powwows are held by the Wampanoag Tribe of Gay Head on the vibrant Cliffs of Gay Head, which inspired the Tribe’s seal. But perhaps the most striking example of the central importance of community to the Tribe is Juli Vanderhoop, a member of the Wampanoag Tribe of Gay Head Aquinnah and the owner of the Orange Peel Bakery.

We found Juli Vanderhoop outside of the Orange Peel Bakery tending to the steadily burning fire oven responsible for cooking their beautifully flakey and flavor-packed pastries. She greeted us with a brilliant smile and beckoned the group over to a tent set up between the outdoor oven and the bakery storefront. As we approached, Vanderhoop told us that Sunday was croissant day, better known as “CroisSunday.” On “CroisSunday,” the bakery caringly crafts buttery, delicate, and perfectly laminated pastries that surround one-of-a-kind fillings, like lemon zest, lemon balm, ginger, and fresh blueberries, garden basil, roasted garlic, feta cheese, roasted tomatoes, and foraged mushrooms.

Vanderhoop is part of the team to envision a new garden-playground, which they call a playscape. With the help of the local government, the community plans to come together to make the playscape project come to life. One aspect of the new playscape is a new playground for over 90 kids in the surrounding community. Another aspect is for this area to have a more diverse and edible forest garden, with a focus on preventing degradation of the wetland's ecosystem function. Lastly, this plan is looking to create affordable housing around this region. They are planning on building a neighborhood adjacent to the park with the possibility open to creating more homes in the future. This integrated idea highlights the strength of community and the lessons that we can learn from the Tribe.

As each of us eagerly entered the baked wonderland of a store to select a croissant, a hand-painted sign hanging on the store facade reading “Honor System” could not help but catch our eyes. The Orange Peel Bakery is remarkable not only for its unique flavor combination and locally derived ingredients, but also for its payment system and open-door policy. The cashier is simply a jar, and the door is always unlocked, 24/7. While preparing the next loaves of bread for the fire, Vanderhoop explained what she is trying to accomplish through her business. One goal is to foster trust within the community by placing her faith in the patrons to pay for the goods they take. She reasoned that taking the first step of trusting in people makes it easier for others to securely stride forward, so the possible risks of this unconventional approach to payment are well worth the prospect of building community. Another aim is to serve as an example of a Native-owned and managed business to promote the financial independence of Native individuals.

Throughout the Island, we observed influences of the Tribe’s history and culture. The Tribe proudly care for their ancestral land and continue to be self-reliant, while not forgetting who they are. As we recognize Thanksgiving this week, we will remember the Wampanoag Tribe, the Tribe who shared the first Thanksgiving with the Pilgrims 400 years ago. Thanksgiving marks the beginning of the new future for colonizers, but also marks the beginning of cultural destruction for the Native people of this land. Throughout it all, the Wampanoag people have persevered. We are proud to stand beside them today.

Written by: Subin Jeong, Edited by: Susanna Yeh, Michael Friedman

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October 14, 2021

Dear HSDM Community,

October 15^thmarks the end of Hispanic Heritage Month. Hispanic Heritage Month celebrates the contributions and achievements of Hispanic Americans to our communities. As we conclude this month, it is important to reflect upon how we are serving, advocating, and celebrating the Hispanic community that is an integral component of our institution and our country.

Hispanics make up a substantial portion of our country- over 60 million people in the United States identify as Hispanic American- yet this population continues to be underserved. The National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey from 2011-2016 reported that the prevalence of dental caries in primary teeth among children aged 2-5 years was 32.9% in Mexican American children compared to 7.9 in white, non-Hispanic children. The study also found that in adolescents aged 9-12 years, the prevalence of untreated decay in permanent teeth is 20.8% in Mexican Americans while the prevalence is 15.6% in white, non-Hispanic adolescents. Although economic barriers largely impact a patient’s decision to seek care, it is social and cultural barriers that often detract patients from receiving the help they desperately need. The misdistribution of dentists and the lack of representation of Hispanics in the dental field is particularly troublesome. Even though Hispanics make up 18.5% of the US population, only about 5% of all dentists are Hispanic. The field of dentistry and dental schools must commit to diversifying the dental workforce to train more health care professionals that are better prepared to provide care for these communities and are committed to return to these underserved areas. Recruiting Hispanic students is not the only option. Establishing cultural humility training and providing context for Hispanic and Latino matters within our curriculum can capacitate our providers to provide quality care for these patients. Investing in communication tools and services can help us better understand patient needs when providers and patients don’t share the same language or background. It is our shared responsibility to advocate for Hispanic patients.

HSDM has made its commitment to the Hispanic community more evident than ever. Efforts made by the Office of Admissions and the Office of Diversity and Inclusion have resulted in a record number of Hispanic students currently being trained at our institution. The upcoming re-establishment of a Hispanic Student Dental Association chapter at our school further demonstrates the eagerness of students, faculty, and staff to celebrate and learn about Hispanic culture.

Further reading:

Sincerely,
Office of Diversity, Inclusion and Belonging
(Written by Diversity, Inclusion and Belonging Ambassador Laura Pesquera Colom, DMD 2023)

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July 14, 2021

Dear HSDM Community,

July marks National Cleft and Craniofacial Awareness and Prevention Month, a time to spread awareness and education regarding craniofacial birth defects including cleft lip, cleft palate, and craniosynostosis. Each year, approximately 2,600 babies are born with cleft palate and 4,400 with cleft lip in the United States, which can lead to impaired feeding and language development as well as psychosocial concerns. These children may also be at an increased risk for ear infections, hearing issues, and dental problems such as missing or impacted teeth. With treatment, most children do well and can lead a healthy life, however, healthcare costs associated with treatment are high and can pose a substantial financial burden for these patients and their caregivers. For privately insured children with orofacial clefts, the mean and median healthcare costs are approximately eight times greater than the costs for children without a cleft. Treatment requires a multidisciplinary team of specialists and the number of interventions needed can vary from three to more than twenty surgeries. Children born with orofacial clefts may also require additional specialty services, such as orthodontics or speech therapy.

A study in the American Journal of Public Health demonstrated that self-rated oral health related quality of life was lower in children with cleft lip and palate representing ethnic minorities and in children without health insurance. Because insurance coverage has historically been sparse for services such as orthodontics, implants, and secondary lip revisions, individuals without insurance may face insurmountable financial barriers when accessing treatment options for orofacial clefts. Not only this, but studies have shown that Black, Hispanic, and Asian patients undergo cleft palate repair at significantly older ages than White children, which can lead to impaired speech performance, literacy delays, and difficulty in school. Contributing factors to these disparate outcomes include healthcare affordability, access to transportation, geographic location, patient and provider concordance, and provider bias. With this in mind, it is important for oral health providers to educate patients on the prevention and management of cleft lip and palate as well as to provide timely referrals, particularly for patients from marginalized backgrounds. Several states have also increased the number of dental providers who participate in Medicaid by increasing reimbursement rates, resulting in higher utilization of care by low-income children.

In hopes of spreading awareness and focusing on prevention, healthcare providers should educate patients who are considering pregnancy about the impact of diet and lifestyle choices on the developing fetus. While the cause of orofacial clefts is unknown among most infants, it is thought that both genetics and environmental factors play a role. According to the CDC, women who smoke during pregnancy, women diagnosed with diabetes before pregnancy, and women who take certain medications to treat epilepsy during the first trimester have an increased risk of having a baby with an orofacial cleft.

It is important to educate patients not only about risk factors, but also about the management of cleft lip and palate, as delayed age at treatment has been associated with more adverse sequelae and higher hospital costs. Providing timely referrals for patients with cleft lip and palate is imperative, enabling an interdisciplinary team to meet the variety of medical and dental needs associated with orofacial clefts. Moreover, social workers, counselors, and support groups can be beneficial for these patients and their families in addition to the support we provide as dental providers.

For more information about National Cleft and Craniofacial Awareness and Prevention Month, please visit: https://acpa-cpf.org/2020/05/28/mark-your-calendars-for-national-cleft-and-craniofacial-awareness-month/

Sincerely,
Office of Diversity and Inclusion
Written by Diversity and Inclusion Fellow Olivia Watrous, DMD23

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June 15, 2021

Dear HSDM Community,

Juneteenth, short for June 19^th, is an important holiday in the United States, as it marks the official date of slavery ending in the USA. Some Americans falsely associate slavery’s abolishment with the Emancipation Proclamation on January 1, 1863, when President Abraham Lincoln declared more than 3 million slaves living in the Confederate states to be free. However, it was not until June 19, 1865, 2 and a half years after the Emancipation Proclamation, when Union soldiers arrived in Galveston, TX, declaring “...an absolute equality of rights and rights of property between former masters and slaves.” This was the first time Texans learned of the abolishment of slavery. The former slaves immediately rejoiced and celebrated with festivities and cheer. In subsequent years, the holiday quickly spread to other states. Each year, its traditions consist of prayer and religious services, speeches, educational events, family gatherings and picnics, and festivals with music, food, and dancing.

More and more institutions are beginning to recognize Juneteenth as an official holiday. In fact, this is the first year June 19^th is celebrated as an official Massachusetts state holiday. Despite being considered a celebration of the abolishment of slavery, we need to be reminded that this holiday doesn’t symbolize the eradication of acts of racism and suppression. After Juneteenth, they continued to resurface in other legalized forms such as the Jim Crow Laws, laws enforced to uphold racial segregation until 1965. They forbade African Americans to enter public spaces such as restrooms, theaters, or restaurants, in addition to preventing the Black community from living in white neighborhoods.

In my experience with U.S. history courses, Juneteenth was unfortunately either glossed over or omitted. However, amidst the justice demonstrations on police brutality last summer with Breonna Taylor, George Floyd, Ahmaud Arbery, and many other victims, it felt as if the awareness for the holiday increased immensely. Juneteenth took on a deeper significance as Black Americans actively fought for justice attempting to close the gap for freedom. The holiday felt more timely and relevant than ever, and further brought the country’s attention to the current systemic impact that racial injustice continues to have on Black communities. Systems continue to treat Black Americans differently in all regards, from employment to education, to homeowner loans to police interactions.

Clearly, the fight for civil rights is still an ongoing battle. Juneteenth serves as a celebration of Black culture and history, but also as a reminder of the harsh treatment enslaved Black Americans endured for centuries and the work that remains to achieve full equality for the Black community.

Here are some opportunities to commemorate this historic date:

June 15: Stories of Juneteenth: A conversation with Ms. Opal Lee
June 17: Black Smoke: African Americans and the United States of Barbecue
June 17: The Past, Present, and Future of Juneteenth: A panel discussion
June 18: One Night in Boston: A celebration of Juneteenth & Black music month
Join the National Museum of African American History and Culture Juneteenth Celebration of resilience

Sincerely,
Office of Diversity and Inclusion
Written by Diversity and Inclusion Fellow Franklin Zhang, DMD23

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May 5, 2021

Dear HSDM Community,

The month of May marks Asian Pacific American Heritage Month. First introduced to the American cultural fabric as Asian-Pacific Heritage Week in the 1970s, the celebration of the Asian American and Pacific Islander Americans and their contributions was eventually expanded to the full month of May in the 1990s. The month of May was symbolically chosen to commemorate the first immigration of Japanese people in May of 1843 and the completion of the Transcontinental Railroad in May 1869, a feat only made possible by Chinese laborers [1]. It is important to acknowledge that Asian and Asian American impact precedes even these times, with the first Filipinos documented in present-day California as early as 1587 [2] and Indians as early as 1635 in Jamestown [3].

Despite their long history as a part of the U.S. fabric, Asian Americans have long faced xenophobia and stigmatized as “Perpetually Foreign.” The Chinese Exclusion Act of 1882 was significant as the first legislation to restrict immigration and prevent the naturalization of Chinese immigrants (followed later by the Oriental Exclusion Act of 1924) [4]. Japanese Americans remain the only U.S. citizens to be interned in concentration camps by their own government. It is also not insignificant that Asians remain the only people group who have ever been nuclear bombed–not once, but twice. When history is understood in this larger narrative regarding the mistreatment and othering of Asian Americans, recent Asian American hate crimes [5]–many even since the mass shooting in Atlanta this March–can be understood not as one-off events but rather the unfortunate yet natural continuations of U.S. cultural dogma.

Yet, progress must be celebrated. Kamala Harris made history as the first African American and Asian American Vice President this year. As the largest growing racial or ethnic group, Asian Americans are currently slated to become the largest minority group in the U.S. by 2060. Greater Asian American representation socially has also been seen through the Academy Awards winning Parasite, Minari, and Crazy Rich Asians, providing an avenue to tell nuanced Asian American narratives that deviate freely from the confines of the Joy Luck Clubs of the past.

Despite Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders tracing their ancestry to 50 different countries, they are still often all clumped into a single “Asian American” monolith, especially in the world of public policy and academia. Reducing this diverse group into a single group can fail to acknowledge different social, health, educational, and economic differences, especially those that are less well-represented even within Asian-America, such as Southeast Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders (even the increased Hollywood representation listed above is limited to East Asian Americans). In academia, data disaggregation is one such solution to increase underrepresented minority representation, not solely for Asian Americans [6]. With recent increases in anti-Asian American hate, there is no dearth of ways to show your support for the Asian American community and their unconditional belonging in the American fabric.

Sincerely,
Office of Diversity and Inclusion
Written by Diversity and Inclusion Fellow Jeremiah Kim, DMD23

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April 7, 2021

Dear HSDM Community,

The evening of April 7^th through the evening of April 8^th marks Holocaust Remembrance Day (Yom HaShoah) or also known as Holocaust and Heroism Remembrance Day, a day of remembrance for the roughly six million Jewish people who were murdered at the hands of the Nazi regime. This day corresponds to the 27^th day of Nisan on the Hebrew Calendar and marks the anniversary of the Warsaw Ghetto Uprising, an armed uprising where several hundred resistance fighters in the ghetto* managed to fight off the Nazis for nearly a month to prevent deportation.

The first commemoration of Yom HaShoah took place in Israel in 1949 and was officially instituted as a National Day of Remembrance by the Knesset, Israel’s parliament and legislative body in 1951. Abroad, Yom HaShoah is typically commemorated through memorial services, vigils, and through Holocaust-related educational programs, often on the Sunday closest to or near Yom HaShoah. In Poland since 1988, there has been an annual three-kilometer walk known as the “March of the Living” from Auschwitz to Birkenau, with the larger goals of fighting indifference, racism, and injustice. In Boston, we have the New England Holocaust Memorial, right next to Faneuil Hall and Boston’s Freedom Trail, and was dedicated in 1995. The six glass towers that comprise the memorial symbolically represent the number of Jewish people killed in the Holocaust, the names of the six main death camps, and serve as a row of memorial candles to remember the victims.

This continued act of remembrance grows ever more important as the last of the Holocaust survivors pass on over the coming years and the events of the Holocaust fade more into history. Recent surges in anti-Semitism, as seen in the Capitol riots this January, point to the dangers when we as a society fail to remain vigilant. We must remember the Holocaust and those that faced their deaths due to prejudice, discrimination, and generalized apathy. We cannot tolerate such evils again. But in an ugly turn of events, the world today has turned a blind eye to the Uighur concentration camps, where ethnic and religious minorities are persecuted once more.

There is much work to be done to help create a world free from hate and bigotry and we each have a role to better educate ourselves and advocate for others.

Actionable Steps:

Learn more about the Uighur Human Rights Project
Call Public Officials

*While the term ghetto and its associations with the Jewish people have its origins dating back as early as the 16th century, the word has since evolved a derogatory connotation in the U.S. associated with African Americans neighborhoods and poverty. You can learn more about the history of racist housing policies that have played a role.

Sincerely,

Office of Diversity and Inclusion
Written by Diversity and Inclusion Fellows Jeremiah Kim, DMD23

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April 2, 2021

Dear HSDM Community,

Sunday, April 4th marks the celebration of Easter, one of the largest Christian holidays commemorating the resurrection or rebirth of Jesus. This holiday begins with Ash Wednesday which signifies the first day of Lent, a 40-day period of fasting, sacrifice, and prayer. The holiday ends with Holy Thursday, the celebration of The Last Supper, and Good Friday, when Jesus’ crucifixion is observed. Easter Sunday is considered a “moveable feast” and typically falls between March 22nd and April 25th each year. While the celebration of Easter Sunday has significance in Christianity, several of the holiday traditions are thought to originate from Pagan celebrations as well as the Jewish holiday of Passover.

Because eggs represent fertility and birth in ancient Pagan traditions, decorating Easter eggs and Easter egg hunts may have become characteristic of the holiday due to the religious symbolism. Moreover, historically Christians would abstain from eating meat and eggs during Lent, and thus Easter Sunday became the first opportunity to eat eggs after 40 days. On the other hand, the Easter bunny delivering candy on Sunday morning is a concept whose origin is less well known; however, some historians deduce that rabbits are also associated with birth and renewal in many cultures. In addition, eating lamb for dinner on Easter has religious significance stemming from Passover, as lambs were often used as a sacrificial animal in Jewish traditions and therefore represents the sacrifice of Jesus.

Now, over one year since the COVID-19 pandemic began, it is only fitting that we reflect upon and celebrate the sacrifice of others who have dedicated their efforts to patient care in unprecedented and challenging circumstances. Similar to the 40 days of Lent, the entirety of the past year has required significant sacrifice by all in order to remain safe and healthy, our holiday celebrations included. Nevertheless, the true meaning of the Easter holiday lives on and serves as a reminder to reflect upon our resilience and gratitude amidst adversity.

Sincerely,
Office of Diversity and Inclusion

Written by Office of Diversity and Inclusion Fellow Olivia Watrous, DMD23

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March 26, 2021

Dear HSDM Community,

The COVID-19 Pandemic has brought several “firsts,” requiring us to adapt physically, emotionally, and socially. However, through these firsts, we emerge more resilient, more understanding, and appreciative of the support around us. Just as the start of 2021 brought us some relief and hope, Passover 2021, beginning Saturday, March 27^th and ending Sunday, April 4^th, is a “first” that carries significant symbolic meaning for the Jewish community, honoring resilience amidst adversity.

While New Year in the Jewish calendar is actually the seventh month (Tishri), Passover begins the fifteenth day of Nissan, which is the first month of the Jewish calendar. This is analogous to January being the start of a new year with September representing the first month of the school year. The word Passover is derived from the Hebrew word Pesach, meaning “pass over,’ referring to when G-d (in Judaism, this is the conventional way of reference to prevent G-d from being defaced) passed over Egypt during the exodus of Jewish slaves from Egypt. Passover is also called Chag he-Aviv (the "Spring Festival"), Chag ha-Matzoth (the "Festival of Matzahs"), and Zeman Herutenu (the "Time of Our Freedom").

Passover carries specific and sometimes individualistic symbolic meaning, yet celebrates the inclusion of all backgrounds. The dinner table unifies family, friends, and other loved ones. The Haggadah, a set form of benedictions, prayers, midrashic comments, and psalms are recited at Seder, a ritualistic dinner held on the first two nights of Passover. Having had the opportunity to join a Seder dinner in the past, I was enthralled by how each food item spurred reflection on Jewish history and self-growth. The dinner consists of 14 steps: Kaddesh (Sanctification), Urechatz (Washing), Karpas (Vegetable), Yachatz (Breaking), Maggid (The Story), Rachtzah (Washing), Motzi Matzah (Blessings), Maror (Bitter Herbs), Korech (Sandwich), Shulchan Orech (Dinner), Tzafun (Dessert), Barech (Grace), Hallel (Song), Nirtzah (Closing). A Seder plate is at the center of the table, containing six items each symbolizing a different part of the Exodus story. The word Exodus carries multiple meanings: 1) the event of Jewish prisoners fleeing Egypt after 400 years of slavery, 2) the name of the French ship carrying 4,500 Jewish immigrants after WW2 that got detained by the British army, 3) Book of Exodus, 4) Exodus (1960 film) based on a book by Leon Uris.

A major concept of Passover is the removal of Chametz or leavened bread. This is to remember that the Jewish fleeing Egypt did not have time to let their bread rise completely. Matzah, or unleavened bread, is eaten instead of wheat, rye, barley, oats, and spelt. Some families may also choose to remove all utensils used to cook Chametz (e.g. have a community bonfire).

Click on the links below to read more about the Passover holiday:

Sincerely,
Office of Diversity and Inclusion
Written by Diversity and Inclusion Fellow Natalie Wen, DMD22

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March 8, 2021

Dear HSDM Community,

March 8^th marks International Women’s Day (IWD). The history of IWD dates back to 1908 where 15,000 women marched in New York City, protesting working conditions and demanding equal treatment as their male counterparts, such as better pay and voting rights. The strikes went on for months, and on February 28, 1909, the Socialist Party of America declared the first National Woman's Day (NWD) in the United States. During the International Conference of Working Women in 1910, a German campaigner and socialist named Clara Zetkintabled came up with the idea of an International Women's Day. Since then, IWD has been recognized to continue raising awareness and lobbying for gender equality as well as celebrating the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women. The plight of women for recognition, equality, and equity has been a continuous and evolving matter for as long as we remember, and it continues around the globe today, from systemic oppression to the erasure of contributions of women throughout history.

This plight has not been limited to just recognition of women’s rights within the law, but also the society at large. Many unsung heroes of the movement go unrecognized through history and inevitably any effort that tries to compile and recognize these struggles comes short of giving credit to every person involved. Emeline Roberts Jones faced abhorrent resistance that “the very form and structure of woman unfits her for its [dental surgery] duties” and that the “frail and clumsy fingers of a woman” would not allow her to perform dental work. However, she pursued her interests, demonstrated her abilities, and became the first woman to practice dentistry in the US in 1855.

When it came down to women in higher education, Dr. Edward H. Clarke of Harvard Medical School, was among one of many, who debated that if women spend excessive amounts of energy for education, they become infertile and possibly dead. (Edward H. Clarke, Sex in Education: A Fair Chance for Girls (Boston: J.R. Osgood & Co, 1873).) Although women faced much discrimination in obtaining admissions to universities for years, they kept fighting. Dr. Lucy B. Hobbs Taylor became the first woman to graduate from a dental college, obtaining her dental degree from the Ohio Dental College in 1866.

This fight has been even more challenging for women of color. Dr. Ida Rollins is believed to be the first African American woman to earn a dental degree in 1890 in the U.S., attending the University of Michigan. (Dykes Jr., De Witt S. (1996). "Ida Gray Nelson Rollins (1867-1953)". In Smith, Jessie Carney (ed.). Notable Black American Women, Book II. New York, New York: International Thomson Publishing Company, Gale Research, Inc. pp. 496–497. SBNI 978-0-8103-9177-2.) Similarly, Dr. Faith Sai So Leong is believed to be the first Chinese American woman to obtain a Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from the College of Physicians and Surgeons, San Francisco in 1905. (Rothstein, Edward (2009-09-21). "Museum of Chinese in America Reopens, Designed by Maya Lin". The New York Times. ISSN 0362-4331. Retrieved 2016-03-27.) It is through so much hard work that these women were able to achieve what they wanted and deserved as historically women and minorities faced denial of admission to many universities.

Although women have been historically underrepresented in the field of dentistry, it is reassuring to see that this number has been rising. A report from 1970 showed that only 3.5% of the dentists were women, compared to the 2020 report indicating that among the 201,117 working dentists, 34.5% are women (The economic role of women. Washington, US Dept of Labor, Employment Standards Administration, Women's Bureau, 1973, p 101.). I, for one, am proud to be one of the 25 women attending the Harvard School of Dental Medicine, Class of 2023 with a class size of 35. It is important for us to recognize how far we have come and much work that still needs to be done. When it comes to women in leadership, there has not been much progress. The first reported female dean of a dental school is Dr. Badri Teymourtash who co-founded Mashhad dental school in Iran in 1965 and became the first female dean of a dental school in 1967. Jeanne Sinkford was appointed as the dean of Howard University, School of Dentistry in 1975, making her the first female dean of a dental school in the U.S. Five decades later and the number of women in leadership positions is not promising. A study has shown the median ratio of women leaders to women members in professional associations is only 0.67 in the U.S. Only 16 of 77 North American dental school deans are women, while 3 of 38 dental journals have women editors in chief, suggesting that despite the increase in admission to dental school and representation in the workforce, there is still much work to be done to ensure senior leadership positions for women in the same manner as their male colleagues.

It is not shocking that women dentists have to struggle with closing the gender gap in earnings like other women working in law, medicine, etc. A study from the ADA Health Policy Institute suggested that men dentists earned 54 percent more than their women counterparts in 2010. After controlling for age, working hours, and other factors, the difference was still 36 percent. So, as we celebrate today as a day for the incredible contributions from women who were brave enough to challenge and break the societal barriers, let us reflect, learn more, and steer for change for much work that needs to be done to reach equity.

Throughout history, women and other marginalized groups have faced many obstacles, roadblocks, and tensions, but they have been resilient, powerful, and full of energy. Many paid with their sanity, faced ostracization, and often their lives and livelihoods. They have come before us paving the way for the next generations and passing on this mantle to us. We have to continue advocating and challenging the system before us, passing on our experiences to those coming after us, and nurturing the next generation.

Sincerely,
Office of Diversity and Inclusion
Written by Diversity and Inclusion Fellow Shaida Parsaei, DMD23

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February 16, 2021

Dear HSDM Community,

February marks National Children’s Dental Health Month (NCDHM), which is a month-long observance dedicated to promoting the oral health of children. Observances began in Cleveland, Ohio during February of 1941 and have since grown into a nationwide program. The first NCDHM held by the American Dental Association was in 1949, expanding from a one-day, to a week-long, now to a month-long celebration. Because receiving oral health education and developing a proper oral hygiene regimen at a young age are critical to maintaining lifelong habits, NCDHM attempts to reach millions of communities nationwide and spread awareness through health fairs, free dental screenings, dental office tours, and essay contests. The American Dental Association’s slogan for 2021 is “Water, Nature’s Drink!” which underscores the importance of community water fluoridation in the reduction of the prevalence and severity of dental caries.

While the month of February is dedicated to spreading awareness and disseminating resources to benefit the oral health of children, it is imperative to focus efforts on education and the promotion of preventive dental visits for children year-round. Despite being a preventable problem, tooth decay affects more than one in four children in the United States aged 2 to 5 years and approximately half of those aged 12 to 15 years, which can lead to pain, psychosocial problems, absences from school, and poorer general health. Based on data from NHANES, 28.8% of children aged 6 to 9 years had untreated dental decay in at least one primary or permanent tooth from 1999-2004, with the highest rates of decay observed in Black children followed by Mexican American children. In addition, the highest rate of dental caries within this group was observed in children, whose families made less than 100% of the federal poverty threshold, highlighting the glaring racial and socioeconomic disparities that persist in the oral health outcomes of children. Moreover, only 25.5% of children ages 6 to 9 received dental sealants on one or more of their first permanent molars from 1999-2004, the lowest percentage of which was observed in Black children. Because of this, three goals of Healthy People 2020 were dedicated to improving the oral health status of children, which included reducing the proportion of children aged 3 to 5 years with untreated dental decay in their primary teeth, reducing the proportion of children aged 6 to 9 years with untreated dental decay in their primary or permanent teeth, and reducing the proportion of adolescents aged 13 to 15 years with untreated dental decay in their primary teeth.

Although few studies have attempted to elucidate the underlying factors which drive these oral health disparities, it is important to recognize the ways in which systemic racism affects access to care, and in turn, oral health status. A prominent example is redlining, which was the term coined for insurance companies and banks denying or charging higher prices for residents living in marginalized and vulnerable neighborhoods. Because resources have been historically concentrated in white communities, the aftermath of redlining has caused significant differences in access to supermarkets, safe housing and neighborhoods, and dental providers, all of which have an influence on a child’s general and oral health status. Even for those who do have dental insurance, in Colorado, for example, there are major shortages of dentists throughout the state, particularly where the concentration of people of color is highest. Not only this, but the lack of diversity within the dental profession can also affect the utilization of dental care. A study by the Harvard School of Public Health in 2017 demonstrated that 22% of Black respondents avoided medical care in the U.S. altogether due to concerns regarding racial discrimination, even when in need.

It is clear that dental caries remains a significant and prevalent problem for children, with the lowest percentage of sealants and highest rate of caries observed in Black children and children who come from families of low socioeconomic status. It is essential to recognize the factors which fuel disparities in oral health in order to better understand why these inequities exist as well as the potential barriers a patient may face in seeking routine dental care and in adhering to a treatment plan. Focusing on oral health education for children and their families as well as community outreach, such as through Give Kids a Smile, are important steps in helping to bridge the gap in the oral health status of children.

For more information about the ADA’s National Children’s Dental Health Month campaign, visit: https://www.ada.org/en/public-programs/national-childrens-dental-health-month

Sincerely,
Office of Diversity and Inclusion
Written by Diversity and Inclusion Fellow Olivia Watrous, DMD23
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February 11, 2021

Dear HSDM Community,

The Western calendar day of February 12, 2021, marks the traditional holiday of Lunar New Year. On New Year’s Eve, February 11, billions of people around the world begin the two-week celebration of Lunar New Year, or the Spring Festival (Chinese “春节/春節,” Vietnamese “Tết,” Korean “설날,” Tibetan “ལོ་གསར་”).

Lunar New Year begins with the first new moon of the ancient Chinese lunar calendar, marking the beginning of the new year, and ends on the first full moon of the lunar calendar on February 22, 2021. From countries in Asia such as China, Korea, and Vietnam, to immigrant communities across the world, people celebrate this two-week festivity of Lunar New Year with traditional practices, ceremonies, and family time. Fireworks, family reunion dinner, dumpling making, praying to gods and ancestors, and giving children “lucky money” in red envelopes are some of the common traditional practices to celebrate Lunar New Year.

Twenty twenty-one is the Year of the Ox based on the Chinese zodiac, or Sheng Xiao (生肖), which is a repeating 12-year cycle of animal signs and their ascribed attributes. People born in the Year of the Ox are regarded to be hardworking and honest in Chinese culture, due to the agricultural role of Ox. The traditional Chinese belief is that bad fortune follows people on their zodiac year, and the way to protect oneself against bad fortune is to wear red clothing/objects.

This year, with the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, local Chinese restaurants in Boston are struggling to survive even in Lunar New Year season, when business is usually at its highest due to festival demands. The local Chinatown restaurants that have been serving their communities for more than twenty years are struggling to stay open according to the Boston Globe.

This Lunar New year, the Boston Chinatown Neighborhood Center is organizing the “We Love Boston Chinatown” Lunar New Year Virtual 5k/1 Mile Run/Walk to encourage community members to get out in the fresh air, exercise, and show support for the Boston Chinatown community.

Learn more about We Love Boston Chinatown FREE Lunar New Year Virtual 5k Run/Walk 2021

Learn more about how you can support small businesses and community in Boston Chinatown:
https://www.chinatownmainstreet.org/
https://bcnc.net/

Sincerely,
Office of Diversity and Inclusion
Written by Diversity and Inclusion Fellow Ziwei Chen, DMD23

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January 25, 2021

Dear HSDM Community,

For January’s Mental Wellness Month, we would like to shed light on the challenges associated with mental health conditions and access to care, as well as the different challenges minority groups face regarding these issues. Mental health has a gloomy history, when up until the 1960s, people with mental illnesses were placed in asylums, not to be treated or helped but to be siphoned away from society [1]. Today, slightly more than a quarter of U.S. Americans suffer from a diagnosable mental health condition each year [2]. Stigma, or the negative societal perception associated with mental illness, and discrimination, often lead to feelings of isolation and profound shame. In our society, people will frequently comfort patients with cancer or physical pain; however, they are less equipped to attend to the emotional suffering or mental health concerns of these same individuals, thus inadvertently contributing to a culture of silence and shame. People in present-day society will tend to showcase the highlight reels of their daily lives, especially on social media, showing how “great” and impervious to negative feelings they are, intensifying this stigma and sense of isolation.

In some cultures, mental illness is often seen as non-existent or a sign of personal weakness, and this mindset could prove to be toxic for the individuals having these experiences. Some common stressors in higher education impacting mental health include parental pressure to excel academically or professionally, as well as the challenges associated with navigating the U.S. mainstream culture as bicultural or multicultural individuals. For example, admitting to “weakness” in some Asian cultures is sometimes seen as letting down your community, which is core to Confucian ideals [3]. Studies have shown that the biggest deterrent in seeking professional help is the negative stigma surrounding mental health issues; Asian Americans are three times less likely to seek mental health services than white Americans [3]. It is also important to acknowledge that while some cultures are more inclined to psychotherapy and to “talking it out,” other cultures find alternative vehicles for mental wellbeing such as through sports or academics. The aforementioned studies also reveal that bilingual households face difficulties accessing mental health services because of language barriers and limited familiarity with the mental health care system, thus emphasizing the need for a more diverse and bilingual workforce and better coordination and dissemination of community resources and health systems [3].

Furthermore, the LGBTQI+ community frequently experiences harassment, rejection, and abuse, possibly contributing to the higher rates of mental health conditions among this group. A recent study showed 61% of LGBTQI+ community members experience depression, 45% Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), and 36% anxiety disorder. Forty percent of transgender individuals have attempted suicide, nine times the overall rate [4]. In general, many LGBTQI+ individuals face barriers to mental health services due to disrespect or discriminatory comments from insensitive health care providers. Insensitive comments can include making assumptions about their bathroom usage or assuming their gender identity pronouns. These transgressions, whether intentional or unintentional, can reduce the seeking of care and promote PTSD [4]. To begin addressing this, one can ask open-ended questions, be genuinely curious rather than assume, ask people about their preferred pronouns and make sure to use them, and include a non-discriminatory policy in the office. This further highlights the importance of more representation across settings and along racial, ethnic, gender cultural, linguistic lines, and beyond! The most important factors are to continue educating oneself, explore one’s identities and implicit biases, adapt to new knowledge, and provide essential accommodations.

While a diverse workforce in healthcare is essential, it should not be surprising if individuals choose to seek care from a provider who is from a different culture or identity group as them. Some reasons may include trying to avoid shame, judgment, stigma, and personal trauma associated with past experiences in their culture or identity group; therefore, assumptions and biases about what is best for the person should be recognized and avoided. We have to keep in mind that although we may think that we understand the intricacies of mental health experiences in one group, people within the same cultural and identity group have individualistic experiences that may not necessarily match our presumptions and understanding of that group. In addition, the intersectionality of one’s different social and cultural identities is unique and not simply the summation of each specific component. For example, a Black trans woman faces unique mental health challenges that you cannot understand by adding up the mental health experiences of all LGBTQI+ individuals, all Black individuals, and all women.

Finally, we cannot conclude this piece without mentioning the consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic on the mental health of all individuals but more importantly of the communities that have been most disproportionately affected. Studies have reported that the COVID-19 mortality rate is more than 2.7 times higher in Black, Indigenous, and Latinxs/Hispanic Americans compared to white Americans who have experienced the lowest age-adjusted rates [5]. Reports have shown the death toll surpassing one in 750 nationally for both Black and Indigenous Americans as of January 5, 2021 [5]. Additionally, the Urban Institute’s Health Reform Monitoring Survey conducted between March 25 and April 10, 2020 (N = 9000) reported that 57% of Latinxs/Hispanics lost their jobs, reduced work hours, or reduced work-related income during the pandemic compared to 41% of Blacks and 38% of non-Hispanic whites [6,7]. The sorrow of losing a loved one and not being able to spend the last few minutes with them, the fear of lack of access to healthcare services, the stress from financial insecurities such as unemployment, and fear of unemployment are but a few ramifications of the global-wide pandemic affecting marginalized communities more severely. Unfortunately, all of these are well-established risk factors for psychiatric morbidity [6].

This is an uphill battle but most importantly, what we can do is to recognize our implicit biases and be open-minded. It is important to look past mental health conditions as labels, and empathize and support those who are experiencing psychological distress. Instead of viewing someone as “a schizophrenic”, we can see him/her/them as “a person experiencing schizophrenia.” Language matters. As dental professionals, it is important to notice that patients are going through different mental health journeys and how that might affect when and how they seek treatment. Additionally, as professionals, we should be aware of our colleagues’ and our own mental health. Studies have shown the need for implementation of more preventive and supportive programs as high rates of depression, anxiety, and stress have been reported among dental students [8]. Lastly, although different communities could perpetuate stigma and shame about mental health, a supportive community is protective. Resilience and its five pillars--self-awareness, mindfulness, self-care, positive relationships, and purpose--help protect against various mental health conditions [9].

There are mental health resources at Harvard through HUHS Counseling and Mental Health Services, which currently provide Zoom telemedicine visits and group workshops. There is also an event hosted by the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, “Mental Health in the Time of COVID-19”, on Wednesday, January 27 at 1:00-2:00 PM EST.

Sincerely,
Office of Diversity and Inclusion
Written by Diversity and Inclusion Fellows Franklin Zhang, DMD23, and Shaida Parsaei, DMD23

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January 15, 2021

Dear HSDM Community,

January 18, 2021 marks a day of remembrance, service, and celebration of the life and legacy of Martin Luther King (MLK) Jr., the great civil rights leader and advocate. MLK Day is an annual, federally recognized holiday that has been celebrated on the third Monday in January since 1986. Although most schools and businesses close for the day, MLK Day is not meant to be a day off for Americans. To carry on King’s legacy, MLK Day is the only federal holiday with “a day on” approach that promotes volunteerism and service to one’s community.

Martin Luther King Jr. was many different things to many different people. He was a father and husband, a minister, a Nobel Peace Prize laureate, and most notably, he was the leader of the civil rights movement from 1955 until his death in 1968. Without violence, King led protests against racial inequality that spanned city and state lines, speaking out against systemic injustices that still remain in our society today. From the Montgomery bus boycott in 1955, to the steps of the Lincoln Memorial where he gave his famous “I Have a Dream” speech in 1963, King tirelessly worked to heal a nation and promote equality for all.

Throughout his many years of service, King had been arrested multiple times for nonviolent protests, and survived numerous attacks from counter protestors. Despite all the obstacles, MLK marched onward, toward a brighter future for America. Sadly, on April 4, 1968, Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated in Memphis, Tennessee. He was 39 years old.

Although we can all agree today that King’s role in the civil rights movement was deserving of a national holiday in his honor, that wasn’t the consensus shortly after his death. Congressman John Conyers was the first lawmaker to push for the establishment of a federal holiday, but failed to gain enough support from his colleagues and constituents. It wasn’t until 1983 that a bill proposed by US Representative Katie Hill was passed and signed into law by President Ronald Reagan. However, this law was not enforced uniformly across the US, with several states either refusing to observe the holiday entirely, or celebrating the holiday under alternative names to avoid solely honoring MLK. For the first time in 2000, 32 years after his death, the entire United States of America celebrated MLK Day under this name (two states still combine MLK Day with another person who shall remain unnamed).

2020 (not unlike any other year) showed us that our country is poisoned by systemic racism, something that King gave his life fighting against, and something many still deny exists. In this new year, and on this MLK Day, let us reflect on how we can be of service to our community, as we all need to take part in this fight if we are to create an equitable society for everyone – for “the time is always right to do what is right.”

For more information on MLK Day:
https://www.history.com/news/martin-luther-king-jr-day-controversial-origins-of-the-holiday
https://www.nytimes.com/2021/01/14/arts/television/mlk-day-events-online.html

Sincerely,
Office of Diversity and Inclusion

Written by Diversity and Inclusion Fellow Jordan Middleton, DMD23

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January 14, 2021

Dear HSDM Community,

On Monday, January 18^th, the School will join the rest of the University in commemorating the life and radical legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Dr. King stood for compassion, racial justice, freedom, truth, and dignity for all. His fierce activism for the poor and oppressed and unwavering commitment to social change has made him one of the most important figures in modern-day history, as he continues to inspire generations of U.S. Americans and people around the world.

As tragic and difficult as these past months have been due to the racism and COVID-19 pandemics, it has presented us with the opportunity to confront the painful legacy of racism and inequality in the U.S. and the way it affects our present day. In honor and celebration of Dr. King, join me in taking some time to remember Dr. King's legacy and reflect on ways in which each one of us could strive to emulate his example and advance the values he stood for in our own lives.

I leave you with Dr. King’s most famous speech: I Have a Dream.

Sincerely,

Vincenzo G. Terán, Psy.D.
Office of Diversity and Inclusion

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January 4, 2021

Dear HSDM Community,

For those who practice Christianity, Christmas commemorates the birth of Jesus Christ, the revered spiritual leader whose teachings are foundational to the religion. However, it was not until the fourth century that his birth was declared a holiday, and the date of December 25th is speculated to have been chosen by Pope Julius. At this time, the holiday was referred to as the Feast of the Nativity, and its celebration spread from Rome to Egypt and to England by the conclusion of the sixth century. The early 17th century was met with significant religious reform, and as a result, the ways in which Christmas was celebrated changed drastically. In 1630, English Puritans who came to America asserted that there was no biblical mention of celebrating the birth of Jesus, and therefore Christmas was not observed in early America. In fact, between 1659 and 1681, Christmas celebration was actually outlawed in Boston and subject to a fine.

It was not until the 19th century, in June of 1870, that Christmas became a federal holiday, sparking the resurgence of Christmas traditions. Decorating Christmas trees is a tradition that originated in Germany during the Middle Ages, and it is estimated that about 30 million real Christmas trees are sold annually in the United States alone. Similarly, the use of advent calendars also began in Germany as a means for children to count down to Christmas while reading a passage from the Bible each day. As this tradition gained immense popularity, secular calendars were also created and include daily gifts such as chocolate to mark the days preceding Christmas. In addition, the anticipated arrival of Santa Claus can be traced back to a monk named Saint Nicolas who dedicated his time and inherited wealth to helping those who were ill and those living in poverty. He subsequently became known as the protector of children and was introduced into American popular culture in the 18th century. In New York, Dutch families had gathered to commemorate the anniversary of Saint Nicolas’ death, referred to as “Sinter Klass” in Dutch, and this was the abbreviation from which Santa Claus was derived.

Although this holiday season is rather unconventional due to the COVID-19 pandemic, technology has enabled church services to be live-streamed and family members to remain connected while safely maintaining social distancing. Though there may be modifications in the observance of Christmas this year, the spirit of the holiday and its symbolism remain intact.

Sincerely,
Office of Diversity and Inclusion

Written by Diversity and Inclusion Fellow Olivia Watrous, DMD23

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December 10, 2020

Dear HSDM Community,

Seventy-two years ago, the United Nations (UN) General Assembly adopted the Universal Declaration of Human Rightsrecognizing the inalienable rights of all persons- regardless of race, religion, sex, language, and national or social origin. This idealistic declaration established human rights standards for countries to strive for and be responsible to uphold. It provided a backbone for the development of the UN’s Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) and later the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which drove global improvement in education, gender equality, environmental consciousness, and the reduction of hunger and poverty.

Unfortunately, despite progress, our global community still falls short of its duty to protect and provide many of these rights to individuals. Particularly important this year is Article 25 of the document, which declares that “everyone has the right to a standard of living adequate for health and well-being of himself and of his family, including food, clothing, housing and medical care and necessary social services, and the right to security in the event of unemployment, sickness, disability…” The COVID-19 pandemic and its impact on our nation forces us to reflect upon the state of the infrastructure that we have created to ensure the health and well-being of all. In other words, does everyone in the United States of America have a standard of living adequate for health, regardless of who they are? For instance, incarcerated populations, disproportionately Black and brown, are often an overlooked group. In Vermont, COVID-19 cases in prisons are 2,331% relative to Vermont as a whole. In Michigan, COVID-19 cases in prisons are 919% higher than in the rest of the state. In Virginia, cases in prisons are 539% higher than in Virginia as a whole. This raises the question of whether or not individuals who are incarcerated have a standard of living adequate enough to be protected from diseases as advocated by the UN.

Access to health care without incurring financial hardship is a fundamental human right yet rising costs make medical care a luxury for many. Americans are largely dependent on employer-sponsored health insurance to cover medical expenses. During this pandemic-exacerbated economic crisis, we are often finding ourselves asking whether or not everyone has access to quality health care. A recent study found that 5.4 million Americans have lost their employer-sponsored insurance between February and May this year upon losing their jobs. At the end of 2019, there were already 35.7 million peoplewithout health insurance. Any potential health issues can lead to catastrophic financial losses for these uninsured individuals and their families, severely affecting their livelihood.

As current and future leaders continue to re-invent healthcare systems and our country’s infrastructures to meet the challenges of tomorrow, we must keep in mind the Declaration of Human Rights and strive to create a society that promotes health and prosperity for all. Not only should we uphold other countries to these standards, but we must also be dutiful in upholding ourselves to them by ensuring that historically marginalized populations in our communities do not continue to have their rights and freedoms endangered. How do we, as doctors, scientists, leaders, and policymakers advocate for human rights is a reflection of our values as a society. The decision of whether to use our power for progress and justice or stand idly is ultimately ours to make and will have a long-lasting impact on our national and global communities.

For more information about Human Rights Day and ways you can enact change visit:

For more information and ways to help the incarcerated population during COVID-19 visit:

Sincerely,
Office of Diversity and Inclusion
Written by Diversity and Inclusion Fellow Laura Sofia Pesquera Colom, DMD23

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November 24, 2020

Dear HSDM Community,

Thanksgiving Day is a holiday celebrated worldwide to express our appreciation and gratitude for our loved ones and positive experiences in life. While we may not all have the opportunity to be physically present with family and friends this Thanksgiving, I hope we can all stay connected virtually and in thought. Gratitude and appreciation must also be given to our HSDM community, which has demonstrated superior support and resiliency during this uncertain year of our training.

Although we learned that the joyful gathering of the Pilgrims and Native Americans in 1621 represents the first Thanksgiving Day, let’s take a moment to reflect on the events leading up to and following this historical day. Thanksgiving only became a federal holiday in the U.S. in 1941. Elsewhere in the world, villagers and Native Americans had been celebrating successful harvests long before 1621. It is important to recognize that Massachusetts’ Wampanoag were the ones present at the dinner, but the decision to work with the Pilgrims was not made easily. Before the journey of the Mayflower and settlement in the New England area, the Wampanoag were already in the midst of a civil war. European settlement brought disease and epidemics to the tribal homes, and some tribes fared better than others. The Narragansetttribe in particular was not as affected by disease and used this to their advantage to dominate smaller tribes such as the Wampanoag. Within the Wampanoag, tribal members were split between allying with the European settlers to fend off the Narragansett or rejecting them for bringing disease and invading their land. The Wampanoag leader Ousamequin and his followers ultimately decided to partner with the Europeans, leading to the 1621 harvest dinner. Unfortunately, European settlement took over most Native American land after King Philip’s War.

After the war, Thanksgiving was celebrated as religious holidays on Sundays with the date and frequency differing between the colonies. The first national Thanksgiving was in 1777, but it was not until 1863 that Thanksgiving was more frequently declared by presidents as a national holiday on the fourth Thursday of November. In terms of food, editor Sarah Joseph Hale was credited for starting the turkey tradition during the two Thanksgivings declared by Abraham Lincoln to celebrate victories in the Civil War. Before refrigerated and pre-spiced turkeys, workers known as turkey drovers would guide turkeys up to 20 miles per day to slaughterhouses. Some states such as Texas held annual Turkey Trots where thousands of turkeys were herded to ensure that all families could have a turkey for the holiday. Now Turkey Trots are annual 5K runs for fundraising and getting together with family and friends.

While there is a political backstory to Thanksgiving Day, it is also a symbol of the resiliency and sense of community embodied by the Native American people associated with the “first” Thanksgiving dinner. As a community that values diversity and inclusion, we can share these historical facts with colleagues and loved ones as a way of recognizing the evolution of Thanksgiving and appreciating this holiday as a catalyst for reflection, remembrance, and growth in the year to come.

More information on the history of Thanksgiving and evolution of Thanksgiving food can be found below:

Native American perspectives, contributions and celebrations can be found below:

https://centerracialjustice.org/resources/lorem-ipsum-dolor-sit-amet/

Sincerely,
Office of Diversity and Inclusion
Written by Diversity and Inclusion Fellow Natalie Wen, DMD22

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November 10, 2020

Dear HSDM Community,

Veterans Day is a federal holiday observed on November 11^th, honoring our military veterans who have served our country. Its origins date back to November 11, 1918, which is considered the unofficial ending to “The Great War” – World War I. Although the official ending to WWI was marked by the signing of the Treaty of Versailles on June 28, 1919, the fighting ceased between the Allies and Germany on November 11, 1918. The United States Congress officially recognized this day by saying, “… it is fitting that the recurring anniversary of this date should be commemorated with thanksgiving and prayer and exercises designed to perpetuate peace through good will.”

Today, we traditionally honor our veterans with special assemblies in schools, parades through the streets, and songs of patriotism sung coast to coast. Flags are hung at half mast, and a two-minute moment of silence is generally held at 11:00 AM. All of this to pay tribute to those who sacrificed their safety and well-being to ensure ours remains intact here in the States. While the day off from work and nationwide celebration is important in signifying the momentous occasion that Veterans Day is, we should all reflect on the difficult reality that many of those we’re celebrating currently face. Upon completion of active service and their return home, veterans often face insurmountable obstacles when trying to acclimate to civilian life.

In 2016, roughly 52% of veterans were without a college degree, making the attainment of a livable wage much more difficult. Within the already existing inequality between veterans and non-veterans, there lies a gross inequality between minority and non-minority veterans. Minority veterans are twice as likely to live in poverty compared to non-minority veterans. This leaves an already marginalized group even more at risk and likely to experience homelessness – an issue that impacts veterans at disproportionately higher rates compared to most other groups. We praise those willing to serve our country and fight for our freedom, but we have a long history of forgetting about them once they return home.

Beyond socioeconomic status, for many soldiers returning home, the internal battle is far from over. Between 10-20% of veterans who served in either Operation Iraqi Freedom or Operation Enduring Freedom suffer from Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). The needs of those struggling with their mental health have historically been overlooked in our country, and veterans with PTSD are no exception.

As you all enjoy your day off from class or work, please reflect and consider that we, as students, healthcare professionals, and residents of the United States, have an obligation to recognize the psychosocial stressors and structural barriers faced by many of our military veterans, and work to ensure their needs are being met upon returning home. We owe them the same protection they so selflessly provided us.

More information on Veterans Day and how to get involved:

Sincerely,
Office of Diversity and Inclusion
Written by Diversity and Inclusion Fellow Jordan Middleton, DMD23

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October 1, 2020

Dear HSDM Community,

The start of Autumn is not only the time of cool, refreshing temperatures and changing colors but also the time of harvest. Harvest of apples. Harvest of pumpkins (or the daily pumpkin-spice latte). Harvest and appreciation of all the wonderful memories we have created this past year with our loved ones. Although 2020 has been filled with uncertainties and stressors, we must not forget to fill our hearts and bellies with the positivities that the fall holidays have to offer.

October 1st marks the day of the Mid-Autumn Festival (ZhongQiu Jie 中秋节) or Moon Festival. With each year that passes and life getting busier, I find this holiday to be more meaningful and nostalgic, as it is an opportunity to meet new people and connect with loved ones. Whether it is crowding around one sliced mooncake with roommates or receiving an entire box and a holiday call from my parents, the festivities of this day shine light on the good fortune in my life, and I am united with friends and family even if we are physically apart.

Mid-Autumn Festival activity in China began with worshipping the moon which can be traced back to the Zhou Dynasty (1046-256 BC). The origin story revolves around Hou Yi, a skilled archer, and his beloved wife Chang’e. Their people lived in poverty caused by the lack of harvest from the extreme heat of ten suns. Villagers regarded Hou Yi as the hero who went up into the mountains and shot down nine suns leaving one to rise and set with time. For his heroic acts, the Empress of Heaven rewarded him an elixir of immortality. One day, one of Hou Yi’s followers snuck into his house when he was out and demanded Chang’e to hand over the elixir. Chang’e, who was aware that she was unable to defeat the intruder, made the decision to drink the elixir and floated into the sky. Upon his return, Hou Yi desperately searched the sky for his wife and thought he saw her figure in the moon. Consequently, villagers started lighting lanterns and praying and wishing for Chang’e’s good fortune. With each dynasty, the celebration of the Moon Festival became more prominent and spread to other Asian countries. The holiday became an officially recognized Chinese holiday in 2008. Typical celebration activities on this day include having a family gathering, lighting lanterns, and worshipping the moon. While different families celebrate with different activities, one commonality is eating mooncakes. These hockey-puck-sized desserts are so decadent that sharing with loved ones is a must. They are typically filled with lotus paste and salty egg yolk, red or mung bean paste, or various fruits and nuts.

As you enjoy the time of harvest this weekend, I encourage you to bring back a mooncake to celebrate with loved ones the unity and hopefulness that Mid-Autumn Festival represents. And if you are feeling adventurous, I recommend trying a snow-skin mooncake for a cooler treat!

Things to Explore:

https://www.insider.com/over-the-moon-full-trailer-2020-6 https://insideretail.asia/2020/08/10/lady-m-teams-with-netflix-to-create-over-the-moon-mooncak e-lantern/

More information about Mid-Autumn Festival:

http://www.cits.net/china-travel-guide/origin-of-mid-autumn-festival.html https://www.chinahighlights.com/festivals/mid-autumn-festival.htm https://www.cnn.com/travel/article/what-is-mid-autumn-festival/index.html https://www.travelchinaguide.com/essential/holidays/mid-autumn-festival-history-origin.htm

Sincerely,
Office of Diversity and Inclusion
Written by Diversity and Inclusion Fellow Natalie Wen, DMD22

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September 15, 2020

Dear HSDM Community,

September 15^th marks the beginning of Hispanic Heritage Month. The Hispanic Heritage Month recognizes and celebrates the contributions of U.S. Americans from Spanish-speaking nations to our country. I would like to share some thoughts about the Hispanic diaspora who have made countless contributions to U.S. society.

“Ni de aquí, ni de allá.” Not from here or from there. This is a sentiment shared by many immigrants and their descendants. Adapting to a new home in order to survive and be successful inevitably changes behaviors and parts of who they are. People in the communities they moved into may still see them as foreigners, even after years of calling these neighborhoods home. Those in the place they moved from now see them as outsiders.

“Are they even Hispanic if they can’t speak Spanish?” “They don’t even know how to make that one traditional food.” “They’re not from here, they have an odd accent.” We are in an age of “othering,” where the diaspora’s legitimateness as Hispanic is constantly in question by their own. What people fail to recognize, at times, is that the diaspora is their best advocate and ambassador. The diaspora is proud of their culture. The diaspora is resilient. The diaspora is strong. The diaspora carries the weight of their ancestors and adapted their traditions and beliefs to new circumstances- making their past shine in the present and using their perspectives to provide solutions to the prevalent issues of today.

Today, over 56 million of the US population is Hispanic- a population born out of the Hispanic diaspora. Early immigrants established a culture of service that is still alive today. From Justice Sonia Sotomayor who was born in the Bronx from Puerto Rican-born parents to the 5,000+ Hispanic dentists in the nation, many Hispanics are compelled to serve their communities.

Although we have much to celebrate, we must reflect on the ravaging, disproportionate impact that the COVID-19 pandemic has had on Hispanic communities. The pandemic has unmasked existing health disparities within our nation. Research shows that Hispanics are 2.8 times more likely to get infected with COVID-19 and 4.6 times more likely to be hospitalized when compared to white, non-Hispanic persons. Unfortunately, Hispanics also are 2.5 times more likely to be uninsured compared to white, non-Hispanic persons, mainly due to immigration restrictions. As health professionals and students, we must work to reduce these disparities within our communities and ensure access to affordable, quality health care for all.

Join me in commemorating the countless contributions made by the Hispanic community to our country this month and every month.

Information on the Hispanic diaspora can be found in:

Sincerely,

Office of Diversity and Inclusion

Written by Diversity and Inclusion Fellow Laura S. Pesquera Colom, DMD23

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July 10, 2020

Dear HSDM Community,

July is National Cleft and Craniofacial Awareness and Prevention Month, a congenital abnormality that affects 1 out of 600 children with a higher incidence in Asian, Native, and Hispanic Americans. Cleft lip and palate occur due to the incomplete closure of the lip or palate tissue, leading to an opening in the upper lip. These birth defects can occur simultaneously or one without the other.

The causes of orofacial clefts are unknown, but genetics and prenatal factors, such as smoking, diabetes, and some medications may increase the risk. Another factor that modestly increases the chance of cleft lip and palate is the neighborhood socioeconomic position of the mothers. This is due to the social and physical environments that impact health outcomes. Treatment options for clefts include surgical intervention within the first 12 months of life and special dental and orthodontics attention.

Although one of the aims of treatment for orofacial cleft is to minimize speech problems, about 20-30% of children will require secondary surgeries to help with their problems. In the United States, families can apply for Social Security for their children with cleft lip and palate, aimed at providing extra income for additional therapy.

Not all children across the world have the same resources, however. Many children with orofacial clefts do not receive treatment, leading to communication disabilities, social isolation, and stigma. These patients exhibit higher levels of hostility, negative self-worth and outlook in life, and greater dependence compared with the general population (see attached article). Orofacial defects do not only affect the patient, but the family as well, particularly mothers.

As oral health providers, we need to focus not only on the physical manifestations of oral health problems, but to act as a social support in the following ways: educating the caregivers, providing psychological support for patients with these problems, and operating from a collaborative approach with physicians, social workers, and speech pathologists to ensure that patients receive proper care. Furthermore, it is important to ensure that children do not fall through the gap due to a limited understanding of the dentist on the significance of referral services in comprehensive care.

Information on how team-based care delivers more comprehensive care can be found in:

Information on how geographic location affects health outcomes can be found in:

Geographies of Health, Disease, and Well-Being: Recent Advances in Theory and Method

Sincerely,

Office of Diversity and Inclusion
Written by Diversity and Inclusion Fellow Aida Shadrav, DMD21

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June 18, 2020

Dear HSDM Community,

Friday, June 19, 2020, commemorates Juneteenth, the oldest national celebration for the ending of slavery in the United States. Commemorating June 19, 1865, on which Major General Gordon Granger and Union soldiers announced the end of the Civil War and slavery in Galveston, Texas. Notably, this announcement came two and Juneteenth Flag a half years after President Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation which was originally issued on September 22, 1862 and became effective on January 1, 1863. Several hypotheses have been used to explain this delay, but overall this gap highlights society’s resistance to accept this new change in America. The Juneteenth Flag was created in 1997 and visually highlights this impactful moment in American history. Utilizing the colors of the American Flag (red, white, and blue), the Juneteenth flag shows the lone star of Texas bursting with new freedom over the horizon and throughout the land.

Juneteenth is more than just a date in history, but it was a point in a significant shift in the United States’ trajectory. The Emancipation Proclamation had a limited effect on abolishing slavery because it only applied to the parts of the 11 Confederate states that were not under Union control. More legislation and dedicated work would be needed to establish a new normal across the country. On January 31, 1865 Congress passed the 13^th Amendment, yet it was not ratified until December 6, 1865. The first section of this amendment ended A photo of a copy of the 13th Amendment slavery and involuntary solitude, but the second section gave Congress the legal power to enforce this amendment. The following year, Congress passed the Civil Rights Act of 1866, which sought to invalidate Black Codes, laws implemented by states to hinder the freedoms and opportunities of newly freed slaves. The Reconstruction Act of 1867 required ratification of the 14^th Amendment, which granted equal protection under the constitution to former slaves, before a state could rejoin the Union. Adopted in 1870, the 15^th Amendment granted the right to vote despite race, color, or previous condition of servitude.

Ironically, this year’s Juneteenth celebration comes in the wake of much civil unrest. A global pandemic and unjust treatment of African American citizens by the police have highlighted the ever-present systemic biases that persist towards people of color. While many images and videos have been shared showing increasing tension leading to violent outbreaks on both sides, other images have highlighted the progress and shared desire to reach justice and equality. Images of cops and peaceful protestors marching together show a unified desire for an equal chance at life and protection under the law. Moments like this highlight the need for people to unify and continue the progress towards a more fair and just America for all.

Collage of photos of police brutality protests across the US

Join Juneteenth celebrations:

The Museum of the National Center of Afro-American Artists will be hosting the 10^th Annual Juneteenth Emancipation Observance
The Museum of Fine Arts in Boston will have its 8^th Annual Juneteenth Community Celebration
A line up of live virtual events coming out of NH, NY, CT, and TX

Previous Entries

What Makes Belonging Real at HSDM?
The Launch of Diversity Dialogues at HSDM
Diversity Event: HSDM Students Stand Together for Peace
At the end of 2015, students from HSDM gathered together for an event to promote peace after violent attacks around the world throughout the year of 2015. View their video messages for peace:

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