Stanford Medicine Commission on Justice and Equity
In June 2020, in the wake of George Floyd’s murder, Stanford Medicine established the Commission on Justice and Equity with strong support from institutional leadership.
The Commission, composed of both internal and external leaders, experts, and advocates, was charged with two key objectives: 1) enhancing Stanford Medicine’s practices in diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging (DEIB), and 2) helping Stanford Medicine confront racial health disparities, which were starkly highlighted by COVID-19’s disproportionate impact on minoritized and underserved communities.
Over a six-month period, the Commission engaged with various groups across Stanford Medicine and sought input from a broad range of stakeholders through surveys, listening sessions, and town hall events. The Commission’s efforts culminated in a set of recommendations in 2021, designed to guide Stanford Medicine’s future DEIB and health equity initiatives. To implement these recommendations, several internal working groups were established, focusing on four key areas:
- Bias Reporting and Resolution
- DEI Education and Standards
- DEI Institutional Alignment
- Health Equity Excellence
This foundational work led to the creation of Stanford Medicine’s Office of the CEDIO (Chief Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Officer), with Joyce Sackey, MD, FACP, serving as the inaugural CEDIO.
Today, many of the Commission’s recommendations are integral to the Inclusive Excellence and Health Equity Strategic Plan, which you can explore further.
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