Mentorship Support Groups for Black, Indigenous, People of Color Medical Professionals
Wendy Vargas, Neurology; Minnelly Vasquez, Licensed Clinical Social Worker
The aim of this project is to provide a support mentorship group for Black, Indigenous People of Color (BIPOC) medical professionals. The researches discussed a broad range of matters regarding the lived experience of BIPOC medical professionals within the academic center. The researches explored microaggressions and implicit bias experienced by group members, their experience witnessing such events in their patients of color, and racial bias as it relates to navigating the process of academic advancement.
The group provided a safe space for BIPOC medical professionals to discuss matters experienced in a professional setting. The researchers discussed real-life events related to patient care and explored implicit bias within and within professional community. Monthly meetings were held for 12 months. The sessions were led by a licensed master social worker experienced in running similar groups.
This project was funded through the Addressing Racism: A Call to Action for Higher Education initiative of the Office of the Vice Provost for Faculty Advancement.