Women’s History Month: These are the Boss Ladies Speaking Out

Whether it’s advocating for safe abortion care and access to medicines, or condemning the bombing of hospitals, these women around the world are speaking out to empower others and protect patients. They will not be silent.

Meet just a few of these inspiring women we’re highlighting for Women’s History Month.

“We will not leave patients behind. And we will not be silent. Seeking or providing health care must not be a death sentence… Make no mistake: we will relentlessly denounce attacks on health care. We will speak out loudly and with force about what we witness in the field.”

On May 3, 2016, Dr. Joanne Liu, Doctors Without Borders/Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) International President, addressed the United Nations Security Council. Following the bombing of numerous MSF hospitals and supported facilities in Syria, Yemen, and Afghanistan, Joanne demanded they pass a resolution to ensure the impartial provision of health care in conflict.

“You will be judged not on your words today, but on your actions. Your work has only begun. Accountability begins with independent and impartial fact finding. Perpetrators cannot be investigators, judges and juries.”

The UN adopted the resolution (2286), but to this day, attacks on hospitals, medical facilities, and health workers continue with impunity. Patients, hospitals, and health care workers are #NotATarget.