A Note from Laurie Pack, Chief Human Resources Officer, regarding the significant contributions of Black Americans - both within Sunrise communities and across the country.
In 1879, Mary Eliza Mahoney became the first Black woman to study and work as a licensed nurse in the United States. A daughter of freed slaves, Mahoney was a janitor, cook, and washer woman at the New England Hospital for Women and Children, before she had the opportunity to work as a nurse’s aide and realize her love for the nursing profession.
Long before they were rightfully afforded the same legal rights as white Americans, people of color persevered through racism and segregation to make our country the great nation that it is – serving on the frontlines of our military, hospitals, schools and other essential services. Today researchers estimate that Black workers make up about one in six of all frontline-industry workers.
At Sunrise, nearly three quarters of our employee population identifies as a person of color, and more than a third of our team members are Black. They are nurses, Executive Directors, Med Techs, Dining Service Coordinators, and Vice Presidents. They hail from countries across the world, such as Ghana, Kenya, Ethiopia, Guatemala, Dominican Republic, Honduras, Cuba, Brazil, and Jamaica. They bring richness, diversity and culture to our communities, and joy, warmth and vibrancy to our residents. Over the past 11 months, they have continued to demonstrate a commitment to our mission that is humbling to me, as a leader, and worthy of appreciation throughout the month of February and beyond.
As we recognize our team members and residents of color during Black History Month, I wanted to express my gratitude to serve those who have so bravely and selflessly served our country, and our communities.