(Ontario, CA) – Mary Brown, President and CEO, and Jennifer Fields, Implementation Strategist, of the Sickle Cell Disease Foundation issued the following statement in response to recent tasteless “jokes” made about Sickle Cell Disease (SCD).
“In the wake of woke media, commentary, and politics, it is disgraceful and dishonorable to have not one, but two ‘jokes’ made this week about Sickle Cell Disease. Velma, released on global streaming service HBO Max, and D.L. Hughley, a world recognized actor and comedian, both failed in their comedic attempts yet succeeded in degrading an entire population of people who struggle, suffer, and die daily from this debilitating inherited blood disorder. And to think that this is how we’re starting off Black History Month – what could have been an opportunity to support positive promotion and raise awareness for this community. I’m disappointed,” said Mary Brown.
“Those living with Sickle Cell Disease, the oldest rare blood disorder in the nation, are among the most medically neglected people in the world. We suffer through our own medical apartheid and now are the butt of two distasteful jokes. For what? A few seconds of laughter and a dopamine rush? At some point the puppeteering is no longer entertaining, but hurtful, stifling, and even murderous. We need to step away from the degradation tailspin and start to take care of one another. To Mr. Hughley and the writers for Velma – what you say changes narratives. Please use your platforms wisely and supportively. We’re not laughing,” concluded Jennifer Fields, an adult living with Sickle Cell Disease.
About the Sickle Cell Disease Foundation
The Sickle Cell Disease Foundation (SCDF) was incorporated in 1957 and is the first and oldest Sickle Cell Disease community-based organization of its kind in the nation. As the only organization in California approved to provide Hemoglobin-Trait Counseling Services and direct the Sickle Cell Educator/Counselor Certification Training Course, SCDF provides life-enhancing education, services and programs for individuals living with Sickle Cell Disease. SCDF broadens public awareness, delivers effective advocacy initiatives, and promotes innovative therapies to ultimately find a cure. Learn more by visiting www.scdfc.org.