January 6, 2021 Message sent by Dean Boris Lushniak to the UMD School of Public Health students, faculty and staff:
These are not normal times. On one public health front, we continue to struggle with COVID-19 infection rates, increasing deaths, and the implementation of a vaccination program. But public health action goes well beyond the response to an infectious disease pandemic.
Today, we were all shocked by scenes of hatred, divisiveness, violence and rioting, even within the very halls of government in Washington DC. Frankly, I was sickened by the scenes that unfolded on my TV and by the aberrant leadership exhibited from the highest levels of our government. As you know, this occurred in the midst of an important element in the transition of the US government -- the task of counting the Electoral College vote in a process that leads to confirming a president of our nation. This peaceful transition of power has been one of the hallmarks of our nation, and one that served as a model for the world as to how democracy can function. We now reel at the lack of peace today and hope for peace to return as the transition continues.
I can’t help but reflect on how the breach of the Capitol was handled completely differently than the response to anti-racism/Black Lives Matter protests. It is heartbreaking to again recognize the perception of threat and violence that is placed upon Black and brown bodies. It was plain to see that White privilege protected those breaking the law. We strive for a true democracy where the lives of all people are valued and can thrive.
At the UMD SPH, we are a community dedicated to health. As you know the elements of a healthy individual, a healthy family, a healthy community, a healthy nation, and a healthy globe are multifactorial. We must dedicate ourselves to true health at all these levels. This is not an easy undertaking but we must commit ourselves to this mission, now more than ever.
I wish, at this difficult time, to repeat a message I shared with you just before the election—
“This has been a brutal campaign season surrounded by many tragic events of this tumultuous year. After the election, I ask you to keep up your activism and your passions but with an additional ask of finding inner peace. No matter what the outcome of this election, we as a society need to go into a healing phase and channel our energies in that direction. Let’s strive to make our aspirations for true health - complete physical, mental, and social wellbeing - a reality.”
As this new year begins, let’s be dedicated to care for ourselves, our loved ones, our community and our democracy.
Boris D. Lushniak, MD, MPH (he/his) | Dean & Professor | University of Maryland School of Public Health