Black History Events Feature Physician-Producer Walker-McGill
In the heart of February, Black History Month, NIH’s Office of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion hosted an interview with Dr. Cheryl Walker-McGill, executive producer of the documentary Someone Else’s Shoes. The film spotlights the significant contributions of St. Agnes Hospital, one of the first Black-owned and operated hospitals in Raleigh, N.C.
Walker-McGill’s documentary has been described as “not just a film, but also a movement that honors the legacy of Black medical professionals who fought against racial disparities in health care.”
During the NIH event, Walker-McGill narrated the story of the pioneering institution, which stood as a beacon of hope and resilience in the face of systemic racial barriers. Attendees got a behind-the-scenes look at what inspired Walker-McGill to create the documentary and the challenges she overcame in the process. She gave a glimpse into her career, perspectives on health care advances and vision for future equality in medical services.
Later in February, another event, “Trailblazers in Health Equity and Oral Health”—a panel discussion, shed light on three other notable figures in Black history: Dr. Kenneth H. Chambers, one of the first Black board-certified obstetrician-gynecologists in Charlotte, N.C.; Dr. Brenda Armstrong, one of the first Black board-certified pediatric cardiologists in the United States; and Dr. Paul A. McGill, the first Black orthodontist in Charlotte and late husband of Walker-McGill.
Hosted by the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research (NIDCR), the discussion was part of the institute’s Black History Month observance. Panelists included Radm. Michael Windsor Johnson, assistant surgeon general and chief dental officer in the Public Health Service; NIDCR Deputy Director Dr. Jennifer Webster-Cyriaque; and Walker-McGill.
Walker-McGill described the challenges and triumphs of McGill’s career. Insights were shared on how today’s health care leaders are building upon the foundations laid by him and other trailblazers to enhance access to oral health care for all Americans.
A medical doctor, allergist-immunologist, consultant and educator, Walker-McGill has an extensive background in clinical medicine, health policy and medical regulation. Her work during the Covid-19 pandemic made a substantial impact on health care delivery and policy.