Dr. Medlock’s Newly Released Academic Manuscript: The Community is the Cure
Celebrating the release of her recent academic manuscript titled "The Community is the Cure," Dr. Morgan Medlock continues to set the bar high for those striving to make a difference in their fields. Her journey is a testament to the power of community, the pursuit of equity, and the impact of true leadership. In a world where some may misconstrue diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) and community work as merely "listening," this manuscript serves as a compelling reminder that being community-centered entails far more than passive observation—it involves active engagement, co-creation, and a deep commitment to dismantling oppressive structures.
Join JFM in rallying around Dr. Medlock and show our unwavering support for her incredible work and dedication. Click the link to access her academic manuscript, "The Community is the Cure," via her LinkedIn post and take action by reacting, reposting, and sharing this important piece. Let's also take it a step further: leave a heartfelt comment expressing your appreciation and encouragement. Dr. Medlock's journey has been marked by resilience, brilliance, and a commitment to justice. As a young, intelligent, and Black leader who has faced adversity, she deserves to be celebrated, honored, and praised for her invaluable contributions. Together, let's amplify her voice and ensure her work shines as a beacon of change and equity.
Commitment to Meaningful Change
Dr. Medlock's career has been defined by a commitment to meaningful change, a dedication to community-driven solutions, and a deep understanding of the need for equitable representation. As the former head of Colorado's Behavioral Health Administration (BHA), she championed the idea that real progress begins with the community. Under her leadership, the BHA prioritized co-creation, ensuring that community was not just heard but actively involved in shaping policy and solutions. This approach was not mere rhetoric; it was a guiding principle.
Dr. Morgan Medlock's recent academic manuscript, "The Community is the Cure," stands as a powerful testament to her unwavering commitment to community-driven solutions, equity, and leadership. In public service, genuine change can often feel elusive, Dr. Medlock's work provides both a roadmap and a powerful affirmation of what is possible.
Nothing for Us, Without Us
Dr. Medlock's has always been clear in her programmatic and service delivery: "Nothing for us, without us." This powerful statement encapsulates her unwavering belief that any meaningful change, especially in the realm of addiction medicine and substance use disorder research, must involve the communities it seeks to serve. Her work with the BHA reflected this ethos, resulting in policies and practices that were more equitable and responsive to the diverse needs of Colorado residents.
One notable aspect of Dr. Medlock's journey is her refusal to allow her voice to be drowned out by those who may have doubted her experiences or minimized her contributions. As a Black woman navigating the complex terrain of leadership, she encountered challenges and systemic biases that could have easily deterred her. However, Dr. Medlock's resilience and unwavering dedication to justice remained unshaken.
While some white leaders with privileged identities may not fully embrace or appreciate the importance of the language Dr. Medlock champions, her academic paper, "The Community is the Cure," serves as a final set of receipts. It underscores the value of community-centered research and the critical role of community voices in shaping policy and solutions.
Dr. Medlock's work challenges established norms, dismantles stereotypes, and empowers communities. Her manuscript is a testament to the fact that meaningful change begins with those historically marginalized or overlooked. It reminds us that, in the pursuit of equity and justice, the voices and experiences of BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) individuals like Dr. Medlock must be acknowledged, valued, and celebrated.
Dr. Medlock's Cross-Disciplinary Impact
In celebrating Dr. Medlock's achievements, we recognize the significance of her academic contributions and the fact that her work transcends academic boundaries. It is a call to action for all leaders, regardless of their background, to listen to the communities they serve, to co-create solutions, and to champion equity. Dr. Morgan Medlock's legacy serves as a beacon of hope and a reminder that lasting change is possible when we center our work on the voices and experiences of those most affected by the issues we aim to solve.
Dr. Medlock's contributions extend far beyond the world of community-driven healthcare. As an author of the groundbreaking book "Racism and Psychiatry," she delved into the critical examination of systemic bias and discrimination within her own field. Her commitment to dismantling harmful stereotypes and addressing inequities has consistently driven her work, whether in leadership roles or through academic research.
"The Community is the Cure" - A Lesson in Leadership
Dr. Medlock's recent academic manuscript, "The Community is the Cure," further underscores her leadership in action. The paper, which focuses on assessing attitudes toward opioid use disorder (OUD) treatment among Washington, DC residents, stands as a prime example of community-informed research. It highlights the importance of community voices and values in shaping the approach to a critical issue.
The manuscript's key lesson is powerful: the community itself is often the cure. Dr. Medlock's work recognizes that effective engagement and solutions must consider the broader context of community experiences, collective strengths, and indigenous leadership. It's a lesson in humility, acknowledging that the answers don't always come from traditional sources of power and expertise.
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Sign the Petition to Reinstate Dr. Medlock: Demand justice for Dr. Medlock signed the petition for Governor Polis to bring her back as the Commissioner of the Colorado Behavioral Health Administration (BHA).
Tell a story: If you have benefited from Dr. Medlock and her leadership, show up and uplift a true people-first leader dedicated to community and transformational reform.
Sign the Petition to Reinstate Dr. Medlock
On Monday, April 17, 2023, Colorado Behavioral Health Administration (BHA) Commissioner, Morgan Medlock, MD, MDiv, MPH, a Black community leader, was unjustly removed from her Colorado cabinet position without cause. Her removal risks the lives of millions of people in Colorado who deserve accessible, trauma-informed, and culturally responsive behavioral health care. It also perpetuates the message that strong, qualified Women of Color are vulnerable to the whims of political systems and cabinet leadership.
Demand justice for Dr. Medlock by signing the petition for Governor Polis to bring her back as the Commissioner of the Colorado Behavioral Health Administration (BHA).