AMSA,
We now face uncertainty; many of us are fearful, saddened and quite frankly are still in disbelief. I want you to know that you are not, nor will you ever be, alone. We will stand together and we will not sit down.
This is not the first time in American History that the lives of many have been threatened, that healthcare has hung in balance and that we feared for what tomorrow could bring. Since this is not the first time, I must remind you that this is not the first time that AMSA has had to take a stand for what is just. In fact, we have been fighting for over 65 years and we will not slow down anytime soon. This might be rough water that we have entered, but we are tougher.
We are a group that speaks up, and we will continue to do so. Remember the importance of your voice, especially as physicians-in-training. We will remain involved, informed and we will advocate and act for what is right. Our collective voices mean more now than they ever have, we must use them. We will engage with those across the aisle in meaningful ways and not alienate those who we could potentially work with.
The American Medical Student Association seeks quality, affordable health care for all, and we know that it is of the utmost importance to take a stand when our future patients face loss of healthcare, human rights and peace. It is our responsibility to promote the health of our communities and to be there for our future patients. We will not remain quiet, we cannot.
We will not bemoan the future of our administration. Instead, we will organize. We may feel tired at times in the years ahead, but we will lean on one another, re-energize and get back to it. AMSA will continue to support our future patients by respecting their autonomy and advocating for their rights.
This is a moment in history that will be defined by how we react and act. Let us take history into our hands and “bend the arc of history towards justice.”
In solidarity,
Kelly Thibert DO, MPH
AMSA National President
