I was a resident at Seattle Children’s and Odessa Brown under Dr. Danielson’s tenure. Odessa Brown was home for me and my patients, a haven in a city that often didn’t look like us. His departure is an immense loss to Seattle Children’s and the community. https://crosscut.com/equity/2020/12/revered-doctor-steps-down-accusing-seattle-childrens-hospital-racism

I often saw Dr. Danielson’s patients in clinic for urgent requests and every single one RAVED about him. When I shared their feedback, he, ever the humble soul, would seem genuinely shy and surprised that he was so dearly loved. He also saw each patient through such a human lens.

For a 6 month old well visit, his assessment commented on how curious the child was about the world around them and his hopes for their future. He also empathetically explained the parents’ fears of raising a Black child and his desire to provide the supports they need.

It was the most beautiful note I have EVER read. While I didn’t get to see him practice much directly, the words and memories he left behind were deeply impactful.

His resignation is also not benign, but due to experiences of racism, which need to be investigated and addressed

Having trained at multiple medical institutions, I also know that his experience is not unique. Talented, passionate Black people leave academia or are pushed out all over. We don’t hear many of the stories. Racism is a system that thrives off of its insidious, ubiquitous nature.

Racism is not an easy fix. Anti-racism statements or Black Lives Matter pins are merely symbols and have no meaning unless they’re backed up by meaningful, measurable action. Similarly, a finger solely pointed at Seattle Children’s will oversimplify the larger issues in academia.

Accountability is required at every institution. Are there jokes and insults made in board rooms that undermine the mission? Does leadership reflect the diversity of folks the institution claims to serve? Is the institution really for the people, especially when inconvenient?

I admire Dr. Danielson greatly for making what I can only imagine to be a tough decision and speaking truth to power. In a year where we’ve all lost so much, our words and the values they represent so much more. I genuinely hope good comes out of such a devastating loss.

My heart also breaks for the BIPOC faculty & residents still at SCH, whose presence and work inspired me to train there and remain my family. Their advocacy for patients and programmatic achievements can not go overlooked. I see you for all you do. Thank you!

The main question is this: can academic medicine ever become a space with BIPOC, both patients and healthcare workers, can thrive?

We, as providers, are doing our part. We advocate for patients, we represent our communities, and mentor future providers. We deserve support.

And not because of our labor, but just because we exist, because we belong. Because we are just as deserving of inclusion, safe workplaces, mentorship, accolades, and promotions. Being BIPOC doesn’t mean we can be treated less or discounted. We need our investment returned.