President Abraham Lincoln signed the Emancipation Proclamation on January 1, 1863; however, the Civil War continued until April 1865. It was not until June 1865 that Union soldiers made it to Texas where, by order of General Granger, it was announced that the war was over, and slavery was abolished.
Since this time, people gather to remember, reflect, and rejoice every year, commemorating the end of slavery in the United States. On June 19th, Americans have observed Juneteenth, which is now a national holiday, commemorating the end of slavery in the United States.
As a New York based association that serves arguably the most diverse profession and public in the country, we recognize that this holiday is part of a larger picture.
Five years ago, NYSCA’s District 3 in Queens acknowledged its own magnificently diverse region and began relationships with physically impaired individuals through the Wheelchair Sports Federation and with Chiropractors in Latin countries through the Federation of Latin American Chiropractors (FLAQ).
With this inspiration, two years ago the NYSCA Executive Board laid the groundwork for a new Diversity Committee. This committee would expand on the good work of District 3 with its focus to acknowledge the dignity and value of every person in regard to culture, race, religion, age, sex / gender, sexual orientation, and disability; thereby helping to guide the NYSCA toward having membership and leadership that genuinely reflects our profession in New York State and in the communities we serve.
After a tough last year that sidetracked our efforts, the NYSCA Executive Board is recommitting to this task to show our support for diversity, equality, and inclusion in our great profession. We hope to continue our efforts by promoting an atmosphere where everyone feels a sense of belonging. This, in turn, strengthens the districts and communities in which we live and practice, so every doctor and patient feels respected and represented. By recommitting ourselves to establishing this Diversity Committee, we hope to lead by example to promote the values expressed in the NYSCA’s mission statement.
If you are a NYSCA member and wish to be a part of forming our Diversity Committee, please contact [email protected].