“Exploring Hispanic Heritage: A Conversation with Carlos Del Río, MD”

The Celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month in Omaha

Introduction

The city of Omaha is gearing up to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month with a series of events featuring renowned speakers and activities focused on health care disparities, COVID-19 prevention, and cultural engagement. Dr. Carlos Del Río, President of the Infectious Diseases Society of America and Interim Dean of the Emory School of Medicine and Grady Health System, is set to be a key guest and speaker at these events. Organized by the UNMC Department of Internal Medicine and Division of Infectious Diseases, the National Hispanic Medical Association (NHMA) Nebraska Chapter, and NHMA National, these programs will foster dialogue, provide educational opportunities, and promote community participation.

Dr. Del Río’s Engagements

Breakfast Meeting and Trivia Vaccine Clinic

The day will kick off with a breakfast meeting at the Kimpton Cottonwood Hotel, where Dr. Del Río will engage with members from the UNMC Latino Medical Student Association, NHMA Nebraska, and Urban Health Opportunities Program pre-medical students. This intimate gathering will offer participants the chance to interact with Dr. Del Río in a more personal setting, sharing perspectives on the healthcare needs of the Hispanic community.

Following the breakfast meeting, the Mexican Consulate will host a Trivia Vaccine Clinic from 9:30 to 11 a.m. This event is open to the public and will provide an opportunity for visitors to receive COVID-19 vaccines. Health care experts will be present to address any questions or concerns regarding vaccination. To incentivize attendance, educational trivia on COVID-19 prevention will be conducted, with prizes awarded to participants. Furthermore, individuals who receive the vaccine during the event will receive a $20 gift card. This clinic is a continuation of the successful “Cultural Vaccine Clinics” previously organized by the NHMA Nebraska Chapter, such as the “Soccer Vaccine Clinic” and the “Mariachi Vaccine Clinic.”

Internal Medicine Grand Rounds and Meet and Greet

At noon, Dr. Del Río will present on “The Health Care Needs of Migrants” during Internal Medicine Grand Rounds at the UNMC Durham Research Center 1 auditorium. This event, which is open to the public, will shed light on the challenges faced by migrants in accessing healthcare and the strategies needed to address their unique medical requirements. Following the presentation, a coffee reception and meet and greet session will be held from 1 to 1:30 p.m., providing an opportunity for attendees to engage with Dr. Del Río personally.

Other Hispanic Heritage Month Events

In addition to Dr. Del Río’s engagements, several other events will be taking place throughout the month to honor Hispanic Heritage. These include:

Guest Speaker Athena Ramos, PhD

Athena Ramos, PhD, from the Center for Reducing Health Disparities and an associate professor in the Department of Health Promotion at the UNMC College of Public Health, will be a guest speaker. Her talk, sponsored by the UNMC Office of Inclusion, will take place on September 18th from noon to 1 p.m. at the Sorrell Center, room 3030. Dr. Ramos will address key issues related to health disparities within the Hispanic community, offering insights into potential solutions.

Fiestas Patrias Health Fair

The Fiestas Patrias Health Fair, a community health fair, will be held on Saturday, September 16th, from 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. along South 24th Street. This event aims to provide vital health information, screenings, and resources to the community.

Zumba Fiesta with Raquel Cruz

On Friday, October 6th, the Munroe-Meyer Institute will hold a Zumba Fiesta with renowned instructor Raquel Cruz. The event, scheduled from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. at the MMI Gym on the first floor, promises a vibrant and energetic celebration of Hispanic culture and fitness.

Discounts at El Museo Latino

From September 15th to October 15th, El Museo Latino will offer discounted admission for UNMC faculty, staff, and students. This opportunity allows members of the UNMC community to explore and appreciate the rich contributions of the Latino culture.

Philosophical Discussion and Editorial

The celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month in Omaha serves as a microcosm of the broader efforts to appreciate and address the unique needs and challenges faced by Hispanic communities not only in the city but across the nation. By bringing together esteemed speakers, health care professionals, and the general public, these events serve a crucial role in fostering understanding, engagement, and equity.

Health disparities within the Hispanic community are complex and multifaceted. They can be attributed to a range of factors, including socioeconomic status, language barriers, immigration status, and cultural differences. Events like the Trivia Vaccine Clinic and Internal Medicine Grand Rounds allow for a deeper exploration of these issues, enabling participants to learn from experts and engage in meaningful discussions. Moreover, the provision of COVID-19 vaccines and the opportunity to address concerns directly with healthcare professionals demonstrate a commitment to achieving equitable healthcare access and distribution.

However, it is essential to recognize that these events are a starting point and must be part of a sustained effort to address health disparities effectively. It is crucial for policymakers, healthcare providers, and community leaders to work together to create long-term strategies and policies that address the root causes of these disparities. Policies that improve access to healthcare, promote culturally competent care, and empower Hispanic communities to advocate for their needs are essential steps towards achieving health equity.

Through events such as these, the broader Omaha community can better understand the rich traditions, values, and contributions of the Hispanic community. Allowing cultures to intersect and fostering an environment where diverse voices are heard and respected strengthens the social fabric of the city. It is crucial to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month not only as an acknowledgment of the past but also as an opportunity to build a more inclusive future.

Advice

To fully engage with the celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month, Omaha residents and members of the UNMC community are encouraged to seize the opportunity to attend events, participate in discussions, and learn from thought leaders like Dr. Carlos Del Río and Athena Ramos. By actively taking part in these events, individuals can expand their knowledge, challenge their assumptions, and develop a deeper appreciation for the richness of Hispanic culture and the challenges that the community faces.

Beyond attending these specific events, embracing diversity and promoting inclusivity should be ongoing objectives. It is essential for individuals to educate themselves about the experiences of different cultures and ethnicities, challenge stereotypes, and engage in conversations surrounding privilege, discrimination, and inclusion. By creating an environment of understanding and empathy, Omaha can forge a path towards a more equitable and vibrant society for all its residents.