The Denver Post Coverage: Dr. Medlock Files Federal Discrimination Complaint
A morning news story from the Denver Post shines a spotlight on the remarkable journey of Dr. Morgan Medlock, who, despite facing immense challenges, continues to demonstrate unwavering bravery and leadership.
The coverage announces that Dr. Medlock has filed a federal complaint alleging racial discrimination and retaliation in her unjust removal as Commissioner of Colorado's Behavioral Health Administration (BHA). JFM contends that framing the issue as alleged racial discrimination does not fully capture the depth of what has been revealed and shared by the collective.
It is essential to note that, in the interest of highlighting Dr. Medlock's strength and resilience, JFM deliberately chose not to include the disparaging and racist comments made by legislators with privileged identities featured in the article. This moment is about celebrating Dr. Medlock's unwavering commitment to justice and her courage in the face of adversity. While these individuals' comments are indeed a part of the story of harm, JFM believes that Dr. Medlock's powerful narrative should remain the focal point. In future drops, JFM plans to address Reps. Amabile and Michaelson Jenet’s intense need to continually center themselves as white ladies asking to speak to Dr. Medlock's manager.
Dr. Medlock, a visionary professional, was appointed to lead the BHA in January 2022, with the mission of reimagining the coordination of mental health and recovery services in Colorado. While her tenure began with high hopes, the agency faced significant roadblocks, primarily stemming from resistance by influential individuals with racial biases.
In April, Dr. Medlock was replaced on an interim basis, but her resilience and unwavering commitment to justice continue to shine through. Her decision to file a complaint with the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) is nothing short of brave, particularly given the well-documented and unique challenges she faced as a Black woman leading boldly.
Dr. Medlock's choice to file an EEOC complaint is a courageous act that underscores her determination to confront the racial hostility she has encountered. For a Black woman in her position, such an action carries a heavy burden, as she knows all too well the systemic skepticism and disbelief that often accompanies allegations of racial discrimination. It takes exceptional courage to step forward, challenge the status quo, and demand accountability when faced with such adversity.
Dr. Medlock's decision to pursue legal action serves as a powerful example to others who have faced similar hardships but may have hesitated to take action. Her willingness to navigate a complex and often intimidating process demonstrates her unwavering commitment to seeking justice, not just for herself but for anyone who has experienced racial discrimination. In a society where marginalized voices are too often silenced or dismissed, Dr. Medlock's boldness is a beacon of hope and a call to action for all of us to be alongside her, amplifying her message of equality, justice, and self-worth.
From the outset, Dr. Medlock faced adversity, describing a power struggle within the organization including challenging encounters during meetings and the use of racial slurs in her presence, all of which she faced with remarkable grace and professionalism.
Throughout the ordeal, Dr. Medlock maintained her dedication to her role and the agency's mission. She vehemently denies missing deadlines (which JFM has covered in extensive detail) and emphasizes the listening sessions she conducted across the state. Her success is well-documented. Notably, The Denver Post mentioned her performance review which was very favorable, you can read it for yourself here.
Dr. Medlock's determination to bring her experiences to light is a testament to her commitment to building a behavioral system that her family, friends, and neighbors could access. Her journey took another challenging turn in March 2023 when she sought to hire a highly qualified Black woman for a key role, facing resistance from the Governor’s team. This ultimately led to her removal, a decision that she described as an "incredibly painful experience."
“It was an incredibly painful experience,” Medlock said of the conflicts. “The power dynamic that women of color often experience is you can be in power, but not be in control.”
"The power dynamic that Women of Color often experience is you can be in power, but not be in control," resonates deeply and invites us to reflect on the complex dynamics at play. In many contexts, Women of Color may ascend to positions of authority, breaking barriers and shattering glass ceilings. However, what Dr. Medlock's words highlight is the unsettling truth that despite their titles and responsibilities, they often find themselves navigating an intricate web of systemic biases, racial stereotypes, and implicit expectations that limit their true agency and autonomy.
Dr. Medlock's experience has been a profoundly personal and painful experience, as she herself has described. These are her words, her stories, and her lived experiences. Despite her courage in speaking out, it is disheartening to witness attempts to turn her into the aggressor and to see public statements made about the need for vigorous defense. This reaction speaks to a distressing pattern in workplaces and society at large, where individuals who raise their voices against discrimination and injustice are met with resistance and hostility. It is a common experience for those who have been harmed and discriminated against to face not only the emotional toll of their experiences but also the added burden of defending their claims.
Such responses often divert attention away from the core issue at hand—the serious allegations of racial hostility and discrimination—and instead place the focus on discrediting the individual who dares to bring these injustices to light. In times like these, it is essential that we remain empathetic, open-minded, and committed to a thorough examination of the facts, ensuring that the voices of those who have endured discrimination are acknowledged and respected.
In celebrating Dr. Medlock's resilience and leadership, we recognize the unique challenges that Women of Color often encounter when in positions of leadership. Dr. Medlock's story is an inspiration to us all, emphasizing the importance of standing up against discrimination and striving for a more equitable future.
As we reflect on Dr. Medlock's journey, let us rally behind her, offering our unwavering support and belief in her cause. She exemplifies the strength and determination needed to confront adversity, and her story reminds us that even in the face of formidable obstacles, we can all be powerful agents of change.
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The power of this movement is sourced from the JFM network. JFM is a volunteer collective and in response to the increase in tips and stories supporting the fight for justice, the collective created a new information-sharing tool! Share information with JFM using this form.
Have you been confronted about your racist, harmful, and oppressive behaviors? JFM encourages you to explore the concept of "processing right to comfort" to better understand its significance. In our efforts to dismantle systemic racism and foster inclusivity, uncomfortable conversations and confrontations are bound to occur. It's essential to remember that JFM’s intention is not to be adversarial but to promote growth and awareness. If you find JFM’s words hitting close to home, take the opportunity to introspect and understand the reasons behind your reactions.
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).