Medical Center spotlights LGBTQ+ allyship in upcoming panel

Date: 06/22/2023

Bangor, Maine (June 21, 2023) — Northern Light Eastern Maine Medical Center is delighted to announce that it will host a comprehensive panel discussion focusing on inclusion and the significant role allies play in supporting the LGBTQ+ community. Allyship is the practice of actively supporting, advocating for, and standing in solidarity with individuals in the LGBTQ+ community, particularly by those who do not identify as LGBTQ+ themselves. This event is open to the community and will take place virtually on Tuesday, June 27, from 11:30 am to 1 pm.

As part of the medical center's continuous commitment to inclusivity and diversity, the panel will bring together experts from various fields and will delve into the importance of creating safe environments, advocating for inclusive policies, and promoting daily actions that foster a more accepting society for the LGBTQ+ community.

The panel features a diverse array of community experts including an educator, social worker, hospital compliance officer, and spiritual caregiver. The conversation will be moderated by Doug Cotta, Spiritual Care Coordinator, Northern Light Eastern Maine Medical Center. Panelists include:

• Chris McLaughlin, MSW, LCSW, Executive Director, NASW Maine, and Owner, Inspired Consulting Group, LLC
• Dana Carver-Bialer, DEI and Belonging Coordinator, Bangor Schools
• Liz Carroll, Research Compliance Officer, Compliance, Northern Light Eastern Maine Medical Center
• Greg Bridges-Music, Chaplain, Northern Light Acadia Hospital

Through this open discussion, the medical center aims to help cultivate the support and understanding necessary for creating a safe and inclusive environment for LGBTQ+ individuals. 

Please join us for this significant and timely panel at meeting time using the following Zoom link: https://emhs.zoom.us/j/9791474371