Statement From State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald On Martin Luther King Jr. Day

ALBANY, N.Y. (January 15, 2024) - "Today, we celebrate the life of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., as well as his mission of fighting for equality and human rights and his quest to eliminate racism and injustice. Each day, we at the State Department of Health strive to honor Dr. King's legacy by addressing racial disparities in health outcomes and continuing to build a healthier, more equitable and safer state for all New Yorkers.

Dr. King was a beacon of courage, strength, and perseverance. Each day I, along with our dedicated public servants, challenge ourselves to continue Dr. King's mission.

The racial inequities Martin Luther King, Jr. fought against are still battles we fight today. At the Department of Health, our commitment to eliminating health disparities is a reminder of Dr. King's life work. The causes of health disparities are multi-factorial and complex yet should have no part of a civilized culture.

Dr. King once said, 'Make a career of humanity. Commit yourself to the noble struggle for equal rights. You will make a better person of yourself, a greater nation of your country, and a finer world to live in.'

We are united to make our state healthier for all New Yorkers, regardless of their race, religion, ethnicity, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, language access, immigration, or socio-economic status.

We will continue to work on eradicating health disparities and fight for justice and equality for everyone in this great state."