"i Can't Breathe" - Courageous Conversations and Responses to Racism in Physician Assistant Education

Abstract

This article highlights physician assistant (PA) programs across the nation that have historically and currently prioritize antiracism, justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion (JEDI). In the wake of George Floyds murder in May 2020, like most of the nation, these PA programs sprang into action to address the needs of their students, faculty, and staff inside and beyond the academic setting. The efforts put forth by these programs were adapted to the virtual setting amid the background of the COVID-19 pandemic; however, many programs hit the streets in protest and solidarity with their Black students, faculty, and staff, while also offering support to all persons of color. Aligning with ARC-PA Standard A1.11, this was an opportunity to demonstrate commitment to the beauty of diversity and especially to the commitment of inclusive practices. This article is a call to action as these programmatic responses are just the beginning. In support of ARC-PA Standard B2.06, antiracism and JEDI should be sustainably engrained into practices and the curriculum as they manifest in social determinants of health and health disparities. Let the conversation presented here be a start to many more backed by sustainable action plans.