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It's also become a space for Black doctors to have conversations about what they're experiencing on the job.

Denmark said she started Project Diversify Medicine in 2015 shortly after completing her first month of residency at a hospital in South Carolina.

\"PHOTO:
Dr. Ashley Denmark
PHOTO: Dr. Ashley Denmark
>

\"I was in a predominately white program and I was the only Black intern at that program at the time,\" said Denmark, who explained that she experienced many microaggressions while on the job from colleagues. \"I didn't really have a space to discuss those feelings -- a part of it was me trying to find a space to talk about these things.\"

After starting Project Diversify Medicine, Denmark said she began to hear stories that echoed hers. So the group became a way for other medical workers to share their experiences and address issues such as stereotyping in the workplace and navigating uncomfortable situations.

\"There's nothing we can't talk about,\" said Denmark. \"We want to be able to have these conversations -- healthy conversations.\"

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In addition to creating a forum for Black doctors, Project Diversify Medicine has become a place discuss health disparities in the Black community during the pandemic and inform Black patients about the importance of getting vaccinated.

\"The Black community has reason to be concerned,\" said Denmark. \"But my job and my passion and my reason for being here on this earth is for me to help bridge that gap and really help show why we need to start engaging in our health care.\"

\"I empower my patients all the time,\" added Denmark. \"You have rights in this health care field. If you don't understand something, speak up. If you don't feel comfortable about vaccinations, make the doctor talk about why you should get the vaccine. Tell them to explain the risks and benefits of it.\"

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