With February designated as Black History Month, Navy Medicine and Defense Health Agency commands, such as Naval Hospital Bremerton, are recognizing the exceptional service and many contributions of Black military and civilian personnel.
When NHB’s Diversity Council sent out a request asking staff members what Black History Month meant to them, Hospital Corpsman 3rd Class Anaya Taylor knew she had to share.
“What does Black History Month mean to me? Black History Month is a spotlight for overlooked pages of history. It illuminates the stories, achievements and struggles of black individuals,” Taylor said. “It’s a time to amplify their voices, acknowledge their resilience, and celebrate their individual contributions to culture, society and the progress of our nation today.”
For Taylor, the opportunity to share her thoughts was a natural outpouring of caring and concern.
“I decided to respond to the Diversity Council’s request for Black History Month because I wanted to share my perspective and contribute to a broader conversation about the importance of acknowledging and honoring Black history, culture and experiences,” said Taylor, from Perry, Ga., and a Perry High School 2016 graduate currently assigned to NHB’s Mental Health department as a behavioral health technician.
Taylor’s personal conviction to help others in need provided compelling motivation for her to pursue a career in Navy Medicine.
“I have always had a strong sense of empathy and compassion,” Taylor said. “I have witnessed first-hand the impact that health care professionals can have on the lives of individuals and communities.”
Read her full storyhere. (Daniel Pérez)
