Affinity Health Center is a member of the South Carolina Primary Health Care Association (SCPHCA), the unifying organization of Community Health Centers throughout South Carolina. Community Health Centers are community-based, non-profit organizations that provide comprehensive, high-quality, patient-focused health care services in a culturally appropriate manner. With a focus on primary care, prevention, education, and case management. The SCPHCA has released the following statement underscoring the mission of Community Health Centers:<\/p>\n
The year is 2020 and although we as a nation have progressed tremendously in all areas of technology, we are showing regression in justice for all.<\/p>\n
The South Carolina Primary Health Care Association Board and staff wish to express our heart felt sadness and sympathy for the family and friends of George Floyd as well as for the many others who suffered and lost their lives because of racism and hatred.\u00a0 Racism and discrimination of any kind is an injustice that can spread like wildfire if not immediately eradicated.<\/p>\n
The Community Health Center (CHC) Movement was founded over 50 years ago during the civil rights era. Our heritage is based on social justice and health equity for all. Health centers know firsthand the impact racism and violence have on the country\u2019s health status which directly impacts the country\u2019s economic status. Our diversity of patients, staff, and board members are a testament to the value and positive impact diversity plays when you embrace it.<\/p>\n
We understand that ALL lives matter, but when a subgroup of ALL have their lives taken because of the color of their skin, then it\u2019s time–just as we\u2019ve always done in health care when addressing health disparities–to place more focus on the subgroup experiencing unfair treatment; thus, Black Lives Matter.<\/p>\n
We recognize that some of our leaders have voiced their outrage with the Minnesota tragedy.\u00a0 We are now calling on all South Carolina leaders (local, state and national) without hesitation to publicly condemn the injustices that are overtly being committed in America.\u00a0 Silence from any leader equates to agreement with these injustices that plague our country.<\/p>\n
\u201cSilence in the face of injustice is complicity with the oppressor.\u201d – Ginetta Sagan<\/p>\n
South Carolina health centers will continue the heritage and commitment of the CHC Movement to fight for social justice and health equity for all people. We are taking ownership collectively and individually to make change.<\/p>\n