Statement on Violence in Israel and Gaza

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Dear Friends and Colleagues,

Over the last several days we have been shocked, saddened, and somewhat paralyzed with a sense of helplessness as we have watched the violence unfold and escalate in Israel and Gaza. Many of us are experiencing a complex set of emotions including fear, anxiety, and anger. For the faculty, trainees, and staff who have loved ones or ties to the region, our thoughts are with you, we support you, and raise our voices for peace along your side.

This is a time for us all to try as best as we can to support and take care of each other. Please note that the Office of Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion has scheduled two additional “Conversations With Colleagues: Israel-Gaza Conflict” events. Please see email below.

Peace,

Pratap Challa, Lindsey Chew, Sarah Enfiedjian, Laura Enyedi, Mike Flintosh, Majda Hadziahmetovic, Leon Herndon, Tori Hall, Goldis Malek, Miguel Materin, Omar Mohiuddin, Frank Moya, Kelly Muir, Yvonne Richmond, Jullia Rosdahl, Dan Stamer, Du Tran-Viet, Julie Woodward


https://dukeeyecenter.duke.edu/about/equity-diversity-and-inclusion

Dear School of Medicine faculty, staff, and students,

Like so many of you, I have watched the reports of ongoing violence and tragic loss of life in Israel and Gaza with a sense of profound sadness and grave concern. Many in the School of Medicine community have ties to the region through family, friends, and colleagues, and my heart goes out to all who are affected, directly and indirectly.

I echo President Price’s sentiments in his message, and I encourage those in need to reach out for support from the free services available to all Duke faculty, staff, and students: 

 As we fervently hope for an immediate and lasting peace, let us support each other through this time of grief with compassion and respect.

Mary E. Klotman, MD
Executive Vice President for Health Affairs, Duke University

Dean, Duke University School of Medicine

Chief Academic Officer, Duke Health

Dear Colleagues,

I want to take a moment to acknowledge and condemn the devastating events taking place in Israel and Gaza and to offer support to all who are impacted or touched by this tragedy.

As a community rich in diversity, many of our Duke University Health System team members and patients have strong connections to this region, and we are all shaken by the images and stories being shared. Violence is never the answer, and we continue to denounce hatred of any kind.

I echo President Price’s commitment to embrace our common humanity and sustain an inclusive, compassionate, and supportive culture – one that is respectful of different perspectives, and is consistent with our mission and values.

I encourage you to take a moment to check in with each other and to make sure that our fellow colleagues are aware of the resources available to support one another.

Well-being services
For those interested, please register to join a special Conversations with Colleagues: Israel-Gaza Conflict session being held on Friday, October 13 at 12 p.m. This is a safe space where team members can connect to support each other around this tragedy.

Additionally, please consider taking advantage of the valuable resources that Duke offers to help care for your emotional health. Our Personal Assistance Service connects you with licensed professionals offering short-term counseling and referrals to help manage through a range of personal, work, and family concerns. Additionally, our Caring for Each Other program offers peer support and connection with others. 

As we look toward a peaceful tomorrow, I ask you to take care of yourselves, look out for one another, and be mindful of the toll that these events are taking on those around us and around the world.

Thank you for all you do to care for our patients, their loved ones, and each other. 

Sincerely,

 

Craig Albanese, MD, MBA
Chief Executive Officer, 
Duke University Health System

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