The Risk and Reward of Speaking Out for Racial Equity in Surgical Training

In order to maintain productivity and career advancement, Black and Brown individuals often find themselves downplaying persistent elements of bias and racism experienced in predominantly white fields. These elements are commonly reinforced by institutional and departmental policies that hinder the creation of an equitable and inclusive environment for all. In this manuscript, we outline specific challenges faced by Black and Brown trainees and faculty that are perpetuated by such policies. The challenges are followed by specific recommendations for change as they may apply to faculty, staff and trainees. The outlined recommendations or "action items" may be enacted by any residency program or department based on perceived timeliness and should serve as a foundation for change-one that is intently created through a lens of anti-racism. The risk of speaking up for racial equity is outweighed by the potential rewards of building an environment that is diverse, inclusive and better for everyone.