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The New England Journal of Medicine, one of the most prestigious medical journals in the country, is facing sharp criticism for publishing research suggesting medical students should be separated and taught based on their race to resolve "anti-racism" in curricula.
The long-running journal published the controversial study on Thursday, April 27, which was conducted by seven researchers at the University of California in San Francisco. The research asserts that separating students based on race allows them to learn differently and discuss their experiences without fear or pushback.
"Since traditional approaches to medical education are themselves founded in inequitable systems, new approaches are essential. Racial affinity group caucuses (RAGCs) are one such approach," the article reads. "The approach tailors areas of focus to each identity group to supplement and differentiate the education received in racially integrated spaces, enabling participants to progress more effectively through the next stages of learning."
Researchers argue that medical students of color are taught to "care for the egos of White people," adding that studying alongside white students can "be retraumatizing, resulting in imposter syndrome, heightened anxiety, and a reduced sense of belonging."
"Founded on legacies of colonialism and racism, medical education has historically centered White learners and continues to perpetuate structural racism," the article states. "Pedagogical approaches often center White learners and ignore the differential impact of content on BIPOC learners (Black, Indigenous, or people of color) with personal experiences of racism."
The study was immediately slammed online by social media users, with some saying the research promotes "postmodern segregation."
"Any institution that tries racial segregation in the workplace is begging to be on the receiving end of a civil rights lawsuit," one person tweeted.
Another wrote, "Advocating for the return of 'Separate but Equal' to promote 'antiracism.'"
NEJM hasn't responded to the backlash as of Tuesday morning (May 2).
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