October 18, 2024
The collective proudly endorse Kamala Harris for President of the United States.
A group of Black and Latino entrepreneurs in health technology released a joint letter in support of Vice President Kamala Harris for U.S. President. The health tech leaders stated they want a leader who will work toward “a future where health equity is a priority, and where technology is used to bridge gaps, not widen them.”
Bridging Health Equity: Black and Latino Leaders in Health Technology
We are health technology leaders who have come together out of a shared commitment to transforming healthcare and advancing equity for all communities. With experience spanning digital health, artificial intelligence, healthcare delivery, and life sciences, we have seen firsthand both the progress that is possible and the disparities that persist. Our diverse perspectives have shaped our understanding that healthcare should not just treat disease but actively promote the well-being of every person, in every community.
The upcoming election is about more than just politics—it’s about who will lead us toward a future where health equity is a priority, and where technology is used to bridge gaps, not widen them. We believe Vice President Kamala Harris is the leader who can guide us there. For this reason, we proudly endorse Kamala Harris for President of the United States.
A Vision for Health Equity and Innovation
For too long, our communities have faced disproportionate barriers in healthcare access, representation, and outcomes. From digital health literacy gaps to underrepresentation in leadership, these challenges have been deep and long-standing. But we believe that real change is within reach. We need a healthcare system that:
1. Increases Representation in Health Technology Leadership
– Why It Matters: Leadership that reflects the diverse voices of our communities is essential for creating solutions that are inclusive and culturally responsive.
2. Bridges the Digital Divide in Health
– Why It Matters: Health technology should be designed for everyone, ensuring digital tools are intuitive, accessible, and usable by all, including those historically left behind.
3. Invests in Diverse Entrepreneurs and Innovators
– Why It Matters: Expanding access to capital, mentorship, and networks for Black and Latino founders is crucial to building a more inclusive innovation ecosystem.
4. Prevents Algorithmic Bias in Healthcare
– Why It Matters: Digital health solutions must be fair and transparent, safeguarding against biases that can exacerbate existing health disparities.
Kamala Harris’s Commitment to Health Equity and Inclusive Innovation
Throughout her career, Kamala Harris has shown a deep understanding of the structural barriers that communities of color face in healthcare. She has championed policies that expand digital access, support minority entrepreneurs, and prioritize community-driven solutions. Her vision for health equity aligns closely with our own: a future where technology is harnessed to empower, not exclude.
An Invitation to Build Together
Our endorsement goes beyond this election. It is a call to action to health leaders, innovators, and advocates across the country. Together, we can build a healthcare system that not only treats illness but actively fosters health and equity for everyone. Join us in supporting Kamala Harris’s vision for a healthier, more inclusive America.
Dr. Jerry Abraham, MD MPH CMQ, President, Los Angeles County Medical Association LACMA, Director of Public Health, Integration & Street Medicine, CDU-KEDREN
Dr. Michael Penn, MD PHD, Founding Partner, Health Equity Ventures
Dr. Mario Molina, MD, Entrepreneur, Investor, Co-Chair Board of Trustees for National Musuem of the American Latino
Abner Mason, Former Founder and CEO, SameSky Health, Chief Strategy and Transformation Officer, GroundGame Health
Dr. Daniel Turner, MD, Serial Healthcare Technology Entrepreneur, Adjunct Professor, USC Keck School of Medicine
Kevin Dedner, MPH, Serial Healthcare Technology Entrepreneur, Author
Shereese Maynard, Chief Compliance Officer and Strategist at Evershine Care of Las Cruces
Trevor Wilkins, VP of Partner Engagement, ScaleHealth
Dr. Nzinga Harrison, MD, Author, Un-Addiction, Co-Founder & Chief Medical Officer, Eleanor Health
Mario Anglada, CEO, CaraVita Health
Rhonda Smith, Non-Profit Health Equity Leader, Cancer Research Community Advisory Board, City of Hope
Dr. Nicole D. Vick, EdD MPH, Board Chair, California Black Health Network
Ashley Wisdom, Founder & CEO, Health in Her HUE
Dr. Lisa Fitzpatrick, Founder & CEO, Grapevine Health
Kameron Matthews, MD JD, FAAFP Co-Chair, Provider and Health System in Advisory Board, CHAI
Vanessa Guzman, MS ME, President, SmartRise Health
Carlos Rodarte, CEO & Co-Founder, Veriteos
Dr. Eric Whitaker, MD, Physician and Healthtech Founder
Erica Plybeah, Founder and CEO, MedHaul
Emily Brown, Co-Founder, Attane Health
Dr. Brenda Shipp, COO, Wellspace Health
Lauren Vivian, Co-Founder and CEO, WePair Health
Tambra Stevenson, Founder & CEO, TAMBRA
Adimika Meadows Arthur, ED and CEO, HealthTech for Medicaid
Travis Gayles, MD PHD, Pediatric Digital Health Expert
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