Black scientists are responsible for groundbreaking discoveries and advocacy work that have improved health care globally. Many of their contributions, however, aren’t widely known and were even stolen, which has delayed their deserved recognition. The effort to erase their impact is rooted in interpersonal, institutional, and structural anti-Black racism. In honour of Black Histories and Futures Month, the BC Children’s Hospital Research Institute (BCCHR) celebrates the legacy of trailblazers that everyone should know. “Being aware of Black researchers’ historical accomplishments, in spite of the barriers that remain to this date, is instrumental to understanding the importance of equity programs,” says Oakley Ramprashad, manager of the Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, Allyship, and Anti-Oppression Office at BCCHR.
