I am a Black woman and a medical oncologist specializing in gastrointestinal cancers. My path to this profession has been influenced by significant opportunities and experiences. In 2011, a fellow medical student forwarded me an email regarding a program aimed at students who are underrepresented in the field of medicine and have an interest in oncology. I quickly submitted my application and gained acceptance into the program, marking my first foray into oncology. Throughout this rotation, I acquired crucial skills such as gathering oncological histories, analyzing scans, and comprehending tumor board discussions. Without this experience, I may not have had the opportunity to engage with cancer patients throughout my medical training.

Nearly 15 years later, after completing my residency in Internal Medicine and fellowship in medical oncology, I now hold the position of gastrointestinal medical oncologist at Yale School of Medicine. My journey has been profoundly influenced by the opportunities I received during medical school.

Although Black individuals represent 13% of the U.S. population, merely 2-3% of medical oncologists identify as Black. Recent political movements have jeopardized programs that emphasize diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), which could diminish prospects for minority students, ultimately impacting the diversity of future cohorts in medical schools. Such DEI initiatives are vital as they contribute to better healthcare outcomes when there is racial concordance between patients and their providers.

DEI programs offer essential experiences and pathways for underrepresented communities, helping to create a more equitable landscape in a profession historically marked by structural barriers. These initiatives cultivate an atmosphere where marginalized students can learn, evolve, and feel motivated to explore numerous career avenues.

The focus on DEI is critical for developing a strong and inclusive healthcare workforce. It encourages growth and achievement for students regardless of their backgrounds. As we progress, prioritizing the enhancement rather than the removal of DEI initiatives will foster a more just society through the acceptance of diversity in all its dimensions.

My accomplishments reflect the sacrifices of those who preceded me, the education I received from a historically Black college, and the DEI opportunities I encountered as a student. While DEI is not a panacea for all issues in healthcare, its absence could hinder the advancements and solutions that we seek to achieve.