In light of ongoing systemic discrimination and violence against Black, Indigenous, and other people of color (BIPOC), students enrolled at Creighton University School of Medicine are pursuing ways to partner with the community to create a more inclusive institution. Creighton’s mission emphasizes the inalienable worth of each individual as well as an appreciation for ethnic and cultural diversity, and we believe more can be done to show appreciation for and amplify the voices of BIPOC in the Omaha community.

We have identified the art collection at CHI Bergan Mercy Hospital as one vehicle for change in which we can work to achieve justice for and with the BIPOC community. Art allows people with similar experiences to share an emotional connection or understanding. It also has the power to comfort and heal those who are ill.

Our goal through this project is to showcase art made by underrepresented minority communities in the Omaha area to create a more accepting environment for patients and their families as well as give voice to those who have faced discrimination and violence.

Creighton students, specifically the White Coats for Black Lives group, will partner with BFF Omaha, a local non-profit that will act as the fiscal sponsor and liaison to Omaha's art scene for the project. Our goal is to support these local artists and display their artwork on loan for one year at CHI Bergan Mercy Hospital – likely in the lobby of the main entrance to the hospital, so that patients and families are able to see and experience the artwork immediately upon entering the building.

Funds raised through this crowd-funding effort will cover artist fees and other general costs.