Recent news events, including a travel ban encompassing seven majority Muslim countries and the proposal to build a wall on the southern border, have initiated a sense of uncertainty among residents in the United States. This uncertainty can lead to feelings of isolation, frustration, and fear. Considering the diversity of our country, departmental staff, and patient population, it is important that we foster broad and inclusive practices to show support and solidarity for not only our colleagues but also our patients who are being directly affected by this ordeal. It is arguably more imperative now than ever to promote diversity and inclusion, to celebrate our global communities, and to show our advocacy in the emergency medicine field. Tasks such as coordinating opportunities in which residents may express their concerns and providing resources to help manage new hurdles can make an immense difference during these tenuous moments. As an immigrant, a US combat veteran, woman, and Mexican-American emergency medicine doctor, I invite all residency programs to accept these uncertain times as an opportunity to improve on their approach and fulfillment of diversity and inclusion.

Thank you.

— Maria V. Gomez, MD
Chicago, Illinois

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