“Of all forms of inequality, injustice in health care is the most shocking and inhumane.” — Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
As the nation today commemorates the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., this quote about America’s unequal healthcare system isn’t as well known as the famous “I Have a Dream” speech. If King were alive today, he would be dismayed to see that the healthcare crisis is worse than when he wrote these words, with more than 50 million Americans uninsured, millions more underinsured, and continued health disparities among the poor and people of color.
But King urged people of conscience to never give up on advancing the cause of social justice, even when it seems like the odds are stacked against change. So let’s celebrate King’s memory with a renewed commitment to fighting for a national health insurance program that provides equal and affordable access to health care to all. Below is a video of a beautiful song inspired by the need for healthcare justice. Called “The System Is Sick,” the song is written and performed by Mikuak Rai. The video is presented by Healthcare-NOW! and the Coalition of the Uninsured & Underinsured for Single-Payer. Enjoy!