A Message from President and CEO Mike Slubowski

Livonia, Michigan, June 1, 2020 — In a letter message to Trinity Health colleagues across 22 states, President and CEO Mike Slubowski today wrote:

Dear Trinity Health Colleagues,

I join with all of you who are sad and angry over the death of George Floyd. This tragedy adds to a series of senseless deaths that must stop. I am also greatly troubled by the brutality and destruction that has occurred as a result of related protests.

While these problems in our society extend beyond Trinity Health, I want to reaffirm our commitment to continue to do our share as a compassionate and healing presence for our communities, including those who feel angry, frustrated, hurt and hopeless at this time.

Our Mission is to serve together in the spirit of the Gospel. We do that by connecting with the people and communities we serve to share Jesus’ message of peace and love. We can be a light for those who suffer in darkness.

In that spirit, it is important to reflect on how our Core Values can guide us, especially at this time:

Reverence: We believe that human life is sacred, and that the dignity of the human person is the foundation of a moral vision for society. We do not tolerate racism, hate crimes and other violations of dignity and well-being.

Commitment to those who are poor: In addressing the social influencers of health in vulnerable communities, Trinity Health considers structural racism as a fundamental contributor to health disparities. For example, with COVID-19 we have observed that racial and ethnic minorities bear a disproportionate burden of morbidity and mortality. Our community health and well-being initiatives aim to empower those who are marginalized and enable equitable access to health and wellness.

Safety: Every person has a right to a safe environment and to be protected – whether in a hospital, at home, on the street or at work. We reject wanton violence and violent acts against any person. If any colleague experiences violence or discrimination of any kind at work, please contact our 24-hour integrity hotline or use our online channels that are available to provide direct and anonymous reporting of concerns.

Justice:We advocate for policy and environmental changes that address disparities and ensure equal opportunity for all people to prosper. We seek justice for those who are harmed as a result of wrongful violence.

Stewardship: Beyond the walls of our hospitals and clinics, we advocate for all to respect the resources of our schools, businesses, churches, public works and other institutions in our communities.

Integrity: We must be faithful to who we say we are. Our Mission calls us to accelerate transformation throughout our communities. We are also called to mitigate bias in our decision making and actions as a faith-based provider. We will continue to work toward the common good and a better tomorrow for all we serve.

Thank you for helping Trinity Health to be an advocate for reverence and a refuge for those we serve. As Dr. Martin Luther King said, “We must meet the forces of hate with the power of love.”

Peace be with you always, and especially during this time of fear, anger and unrest in our country and in our world. We need peace and love now, more than ever.

Mike