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As a resident from the program that published the #medbikini article, I was surprised to read methodology so antithetical to equitable values shared by myself and others at our hospital. Here are some (personal) thoughts. /1
The recent paper in no way represents the culture of our program or the tireless work our residents/faculty are doing to achieve @surgicalequity. Residents across specialties came here for the mission and the profound advocacy work of faculty, residents, and medical students./2
I truly believe the authors (and mentors) did not intend to portray the paper as they did, but it highlights the danger of bubbles that lack inclusion and the xenophobic ideas that can breed in those spaces. It shows that even mentors must continue to strive to be better./3
The paper somehow managed to touch on issues of #sexism, #racism, #homophobia, and freedom of speech in a few short sentences. It has now faced its match with the publication of a blatantly racist paper structured in white supremacy. /4
The release of these two manuscripts illustrates the severe lack of inclusion within academia and the dwelling of misogyny, white supremacy, homophobia and xenophobia in the very foundations of academic research, writings and publication. /5
These foundations perpetuate false narratives around the social construct of race, national origin, sexual orientation and gender identity, among countless other marginalized groups. Academia promotes these viewpoints while blocking other “controversial” or “fringe” ideas. /6
Not only has #medbikini and #medtwitter held accountable those perpetuating these notions, but the discussion around it has highlighted the issues of intersectionality and sometimes competing ideals of feminism, race, and LGBTQ+ activism. /7
It's not enough to be solely anti-sexist, anti-racist, or anti-homophobic. We must be anti-sexist AND anti-racist AND anti-homophobic with all the countless permutations therein. To change the narrative within academia, we must dismantle and rebuild with diverse voices. /8
As a white male who grew up in America, there is a lot of smut in my subconscious to unlearn and oppose. I've learned and still have much to learn from my patients, colleagues, mentors and students. That will never end and I’m sure I will make mistakes along the way. /9
So too must I be an ally and realize the work that needs to be done BY me and others like me to battle white supremacy and sexism. So too will I push my mentors and colleagues to do such work. I'm sure we will work together to help dismantle these oppressive systems. /10
I am constantly humbled by those in my program and hospital that consistently show up to do the work to move towards a more equitable system. I'm amazed by everyone on #medtwitter doing the same. Thank you for helping me and others like me to be better. /11
I acknowledge that I have likely missed many marginalized groups in this post and sincerely apologize for not bringing those issues to the forefront. I am always happy to hear how I can improve and ideals I can teach others. /12
