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| Dr. Rachel Levine |
In her brief speech, Dr. Levine made a point for diversity. Diversity is increasingly the nation’s flash point. The key political question that we all face in the United States is simple: should we insist that everyone be the same, or should we accept that everyone is not the same? I increasingly believe that simple question gives rise to our most pressing political questions.
Dr. Levine’s brief speech made a substantive point, that diversity gives us more knowledge, more capabilities, and more insight. She said:
“May this appointment today be the first of many more to come as we create a diverse and more inclusive future. Diversity makes us stronger. Each person has a different perspective and different strengths that they bring to make the whole community stronger. The time is now for our country to continue to move the bar forward for diversity. And I am proud to wear this uniform and answer that call.”Pointless political divisions arise when people ask questions like “can you give a scientific definition of a woman?” or insist that everyone must fit rigidly into two and only two gender categories. These draw attention away from the real issue, which is whether we will, or will not, accept that people do not always need to be the same. Too many people think that everyone else needs to conform to someone else’s ideal.
Ronald Reagan Spoke on the Fourth of July: Celebrating Freedom, Shared Values, and Diversity
Epideictic or ceremonial speeches reflect our values. Dr. Levine continues to serve admirably in the public health arena, and her plea to “move the bar forward” should make us all reflect.
Epideictic or ceremonial speeches reflect our values. Dr. Levine continues to serve admirably in the public health arena, and her plea to “move the bar forward” should make us all reflect.
by William D. Harpine
© Copyright 2023, William D. Harpine
Image: US Public Health Service Commissioned Corps
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