June 10, 2020

BC Society of Allergy and Immunology Statement Against Racism and Discrimination June 10, 2020 As pediatric and adult allergists and immunologists in BC, we stand together with our American and Canadian colleagues to fight against racism, discrimination, and inequities based on race, culture, religion, gender, and disability. We are saddened and appalled by the anti-Black and anti-Indigenous violence witnessed in the US and in our own country. Our hearts and thoughts are with these innocent victims, their families, and their communities living through this injustice.

We acknowledge that racism, both overt and inadvertent, exists within our medical institutions, the health care system, and our communities in BC and Canada. We are also learning that the history of medicine and research is entrenched with racism, and we are committed to continue educating ourselves and sharing this knowledge.

As physicians, we have taken an oath to recognize that everyone has equal and inherent worth, the right to be valued and respected, and the right to be treated with dignity. Unfortunately, we are aware this is still not true in our world today and we are no longer staying silent. We recognize our position, privilege, and voices as doctors. We pledge to actively be a part of the change needed in our societies.

To echo the world-wide sentiment, Black Lives Matter. In parallel, Indigenous Lives Matter.

In solidarity,

Dr. Bahar Torabi
President of the BC Society of Allergy and Immunology