For the first time since March 2020, the IBDMoms were together again in Washington, DC. Normally we are in DC to advocate for people with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD, Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, and indeterminate colitis) and other conditions with legislators. This time, however, we were present for Equity In IBD.
Equity in IBD is the first hybrid patient symposium focused on the black, indigenous, and people of color (BIPOC) patient community. Speakers included patients, gastroenterologists, colorectal surgeons, advance practice providers, and non-profit professionals.
Equity in IBD was presented by Color of Crohn’s & Chronic Illness (COCCI), a non-profit organization dedicated to “improving the quality of life for BIPOC who are affected by IBD, digestive disorders and associated chronic illnesses through community, research, education, and advocacy.
Programs included:
- IBD and Me! What is IBD?: An IBD primer that focused on the aspects patients might not have heard before.
- I Had No Idea!: A patient panel exploring the experiences of BIPOC patients living with an IBD.
- Racism in GI: A panel moderated by Brooke Abbott focused on the racism experienced by providers during their careers as gastrointestinal professionals.
- Situations, Can Arise!: A presentation focused on the complications that can occur with IBD, including:
- Abscesses
- Blockages
- Fistulae
- Fissures
- Strictures
- What Are My Options?: An overview of the treatment options available for IBD.
- More Than a Number, More Than Data!: Information about clinical trials, acknowledging how BIPOC patients were taken advantage of in the past, and why they are different today.
- Say It Loud!: A patient discussion on advocacy, including how to be present in the space, that included the IBDMoms, Brooke Abbott and Amber Tresca, as panelists.
IBDMoms was excited to take part in this one of a kind event and look forward to continuing the work and for more opportunities to engage the BIPOC community in the IBD space.