The article discusses a controversial Equity and Inclusion Conference held at Eastern Tennessee State University ETSU in September 2023, which included a lecture advocating for racial reparations in healthcare.
Despite a recent state law in Tennessee that prohibits public universities from hosting programs promoting divisive concepts, including racial discrimination or preferential treatment based on race, the conference featured several racially themed events. These included discussions on Black Male Empowerment, racial equity in leadership, and facilitating cultural humility.
One of the key sessions at the conference, titled Health Care Reparations: Reversing the Impact of Race Corrections on Health Equity, centered on the concept of race corrections in healthcare, which refers to using a patient’s race to inform medical decisions. The conference’s focus on racial equity sparked debate, especially given the law’s restrictions on discriminatory practices.
The keynote speaker, Keisha Blain, has criticized the U.S. for its treatment of racial issues and voting laws under former President Donald Trump.
ETSU’s medical school has also been noted for embedding social justice and diversity efforts into its programs, even facing scrutiny from conservative organizations for its focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion DEI.
The university did not respond to requests for comment regarding the event.