The Health of Communities of Color: A Discussion on Gun Violence

Dr. Brian H. Williams, a skilled surgeon, has more than two decades of experience treating urban gun violence victims in Tampa, Boston, Atlanta, Dallas, and Chicago. On July 7th, 2016 Dr. Williams led the trauma team that treated police officers ambushed by a sniper in Dallas, Texas; the largest loss of life for US law enforcement since 9/11. At a press conference days later, Williams' heartfelt comments about the tragedy touched thousands, and it catapulted him into the spotlight as an international spokesperson on violence and racial justice.

Dr. Brian Williams, trauma surgeon and author of The Bodies Keep Coming: Dispatches from a Black Trauma Surgeon on Racism, Violence, and How We Heal will be the keynote speaker at a community forum on Thursday, March 21 about “The Health of Communities of Color - A Discussion on Gun Violence.” Presented by the 70th Anniversary Brown Coalition in partnership with Stormont Vail Health from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. the event is free and open to the public. Registration is available either in advance or at the event.

Dr. Williams has become a recognized leader on the intersection of public policy and structural racism, gun violence and health equity. His live presentation will be provided virtually.

In addition to remarks from Dr. Williams, regional speakers will also provide valuable insights about the effect of gun violence from the perspectives of a care provider, victim, family member, mental health professional and community activist.

Community informational booths will be available at the event in the corridor outside Pozez Auditorium, which is connected to Stormont Vail Hospital. Those attending are asked to park in the hospital parking garage and enter through the North Tower Main Entrance of the hospital at 9th and Horne Street. The hospital has a screening process and visitor badges will be provided to attendees. Please arrive early to get your visitor badge.

The 70th Brown Anniversary Coalition is sponsoring community events as a part of the recognition that 2024 is the 70th anniversary of the Brown v. Board of Education case in which the United States Supreme Court unanimously overturned the “separate but equal” doctrine in public schools and declared racially segregated education unconstitutional. For more information and to register please go to the Coalition’s website at www.70thanniversarybrowncoalition.org.

What: The 70th Anniversary Brown Coalition, in partnership with Stormont Vail Health presents “The Health of Communities of Color: A Discussion on Gun Violence.” A free community forum.

For: Anyone concerned about gun violence in our community.

Why the Coalition: The 70th Brown Anniversary Coalition is sponsoring community events as part of the recognition that 2024 is the 70th anniversary of the Brown v. Board of Education case in which the United States Supreme Court unanimously overturned the “separate but equal” doctrine in public schools and declared racially segregated education unconstitutional.

This year we have been looking at disparities in not just education but in all things related to race. March is our month to focus on health.

Why now: There is an epidemic of gun violence in America, and the health of Communities of Color is disproportionately affected.

When: 6:30 P.M - 8:30 P.M. Thursday, March 21, 2024

Where: “The Health of Communities of Color: A Discussion on Gun Violence' is offered in person at Stormont Vail Hospital and virtually via Zoom webinar.

Location and Parking: Pozez Education Center, Stormont Vail Hospital, 1500 S.W. 10th Avenue, Topeka, KS 66604. Enter North Tower Main Entrance revolving doors at 9th & Horne, adjacent to Parking Garage.

Registration for Free Event: https://www.70thanniversarybrowncoalition.org/

Walk-ins are Welcome.