The New York State Commissioner of Health has issued the statement below celebrating February as Ethnic Equality Month.

Statement From State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald on Ethnic Equality Month

"As we celebrate Ethnic Equality Month, the New York State Department of Health remains committed to eliminating health disparities and promoting health equity for all New Yorkers.  Ethnic Equality Month, celebrated in February each year, is a time to recognize the similarities we all share, and respect and acknowledge the differences that make us all unique and beautiful.  Despite our different cultures, races, ethnicities, and life stories, we all deserve equal rights and opportunities, as well as fair and positive health outcomes.  Writer and Professor Audre Lorde once said, ‘It is not our differences that divide us, it is our inability to recognize, accept, and celebrate those differences.'  This month, I encourage everyone to challenge ourselves, appreciate the beauty in our differences, and think about what we can do to implement health equity, social equality and justice in the world.”