Watch Black Women In Medicine

Black Women In Medicine is a critically acclaimed documentary film from 2016 that showcases the inspiring stories of four remarkable African American women who have made a significant impact on the medical field. The film, directed by Crystal Emery, begins with a powerful opening sequence that introduces the viewer to the history and legacy of black women in medicine. It then delves into the personal journeys of the four main subjects: Dr. Myra Adele Logan, Dr. Ruth Jones, Dr. Claudia Thomas, and Dr. Joycelyn Elders.

Dr. Myra Adele Logan was the first woman of color to perform open-heart surgery in 1943. She struggled to gain recognition in the predominantly white medical field but broke down barriers through her hard work and dedication.

Dr. Ruth Jones was the first African American woman to be appointed as a chief of surgery in the United States in 1978. She specialized in treating breast cancer and was a vocal advocate for women's health issues.

Dr. Claudia Thomas was the first African American woman to be appointed as a state health officer in the United States in 1995. She played a critical role in implementing public health policies that helped to improve the health outcomes of underserved communities.

Dr. Joycelyn Elders was the first African American woman to be appointed as the Surgeon General of the United States in 1993. She was a fearless advocate for public health issues such as drug addiction and teen pregnancy, but her outspoken views on sexual education caused controversy and led to her dismissal.

The film is a blend of archival footage, interviews with the subjects and their families, and commentary from experts in the medical field. Through their personal stories, the film explores the challenges and triumphs of these trailblazing women, highlighting the systemic racism and sexism that they faced throughout their careers.

One of the most powerful themes of the film is the importance of mentorship and support from other women. All of the subjects credit the guidance and encouragement of other women in their field as a critical factor in their success. The film showcases the transformative power of representation and mentorship, and serves as a reminder of the significant contributions that black women have made and continue to make in medicine.

The cinematography of the film is stunning, with beautifully composed shots of the women at work and striking imagery that captures the spirit of their accomplishments. The music is emotive and complements the film's tone and pacing perfectly.

Overall, Black Women In Medicine is a moving and inspiring documentary that sheds light on the often-overlooked contributions of black women in medicine. It is a testament to the power of hard work, perseverance, and the importance of representation and mentorship. The film is a must-see for anyone interested in the history of medicine, women's health, and social justice.