Embracing Inclusivity: A Commitment to Action
A powerful reminder hangs above my workspace: “Health is a fundamental right, accessible to every individual, regardless of their background, gender, age, size, shape, or race.” These words have always guided our mission, but we’ve fallen short of truly living up to them. Today, we’re taking the first step towards change.
Acknowledging Our Shortcomings
We’ve tackled topics like beauty standards, body image, mental wellness, sexuality, and trauma from Black perspectives, but we know it’s not enough. We need to do more, and we need to do it consistently. The harsh reality is that we, as editors, don’t fully understand the experiences of being Black in today’s world. We’re committed to educating ourselves on what it means to be anti-racist, even if it means confronting our own biases and discomfort.
Holding Ourselves Accountable
From now on, we’ll hold ourselves responsible for the content we create, commission, edit, and promote. We’ll ensure that our process doesn’t compromise the well-being of our Black colleagues, writers, and readers. We’ll strive to amplify Black voices and stories, commissioning new content every month from Black writers and sharing resources that facilitate meaningful action.
A Long-Term Commitment
This isn’t a fleeting response to current events; it’s a pledge to sustained effort. We’ll continue to share resources, stories, and information that drive change, even when the headlines fade. As editors and individuals, we recognize that racism is a deadly barrier to health and wellness. It’s our duty to do the hard work necessary to dismantle it.
A Call to Action
We’re not just talking about words; we’re committing to tangible actions that promote inclusivity and equity. We invite everyone to join us on this journey, moving beyond words into concrete change. Together, we can create a world where health and wellness are truly accessible to every individual, regardless of their background or circumstances.
Leave a Reply