Questions to Ask the BHA's New Leadership for Accountability and Transparency
JFM developed sample questions to ask the new BHA leadership at public forums regarding the situation with Dr. Medlock and the toxic nature of the organization.
Transparency and Accountability
Can you provide a clear explanation of the circumstances surrounding the removal of Dr. Medlock from her position at the BHA? How are you honoring Dr. Medlock's contributions and legacy building the BHA from the ground up?
What steps are being taken to ensure transparency and accountability within the organization, especially in decision-making processes that impact marginalized communities?
Leadership and Diversity
What specific measures are being implemented to ensure that the new BHA leadership represents and reflects the diverse communities it serves, including racial and ethnic diversity, lived experiences, and marginalized identities?
How will the BHA actively foster a culture of inclusivity, where the voices and contributions of individuals from historically-excluded backgrounds are valued and centered?
Employee Well-being and Organizational Culture
How does the BHA plan to address the concerns raised about the harmful nature of the organization and its impact on employee well-being?
What steps are being taken to create a supportive and inclusive work environment that prioritizes mental health and supports the professional growth of all staff members?
Restoring Community Trust
What strategies are BHA's current leadership implementing to rebuild trust and mend relationships with the community, especially considering the impact of recent events on the trust of BIPOC and historically excluded communities?
How does the BHA plan to actively engage community stakeholders, including those who have voiced support for Dr. Medlock, in shaping the future direction of the BHA and its initiatives?
Equity and Co-Creation
How will the BHA ensure that the principles of equity and co-creation, which were emphasized during Dr. Medlock's tenure, continue to guide the work of the BHA going forward?
In what ways will the BHA center the voices and experiences of marginalized communities in decision-making processes, program development, and service delivery to ensure equitable outcomes for all?
These questions aim to address concerns regarding transparency, leadership, organizational culture, community trust, and the commitment to equity and inclusion. They encourage the new BHA leadership to account for the experiences and perspectives of historically-excluded communities and provide an opportunity for them to outline their plans for fostering a more inclusive and accountable organization.
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).