This week, the U.S. Supreme Court issued two landmark decisions that resonate powerfully with our values at Providence.
The first is that every American, including those who are gay or transgender, is entitled to equal protection under the law and should not fear losing a job because of sexual orientation or gender identity. We celebrate this decision. It is a long-awaited step towards justice, which is one of our most deeply-held values. It also affirms our own nondiscrimination policies, which are fundamental to our Code of Conduct and commitment to being an equal opportunity employer.
The second ruling will allow immigrants brought to the United States as children to continue to live, study and work in this country, which is the only home many of them know or remember. More than 140 of our caregivers are Dreamers, covered by the Deferred Action Childhood Arrivals program. Our communities have benefited tremendously from their talents and their hearts. Thanks to support from many of you, our family of organizations has been an active and persistent voice for continuing DACA. It was wonderful to wake up this morning and hear the news of the latest Supreme Court decision.
With tomorrow being Juneteenth, I also want to acknowledge the significance of this holiday, which recognizes the emancipation of Black slaves in the United States. I invite us all to use this time to reflect on the history of Black lives in our country, the suffering that’s been endured and what we still need to do on the journey to equality.
Catholic health care is distinguished by service and advocacy for those who are vulnerable to discrimination or on the margins of society. Gay and transgender individuals, undocumented immigrants and Black Americans are among the most vulnerable members of our communities. Together, we continue to honor and embrace the rich diversity of all our caregivers, and welcome and serve everyone with compassion and respect. To all of our caregivers, thank you for living our values and recognizing the inherent human dignity and worth in one another and in every person we serve.
