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November 19, 2006
Amber's SADHA Day Reflection
My first "big" SADHA day and it was interesting! It remeinded me of a previous "dental show" that I attended about a year ago. One of the only differences was that the two events were targeted towards two different topics. One similarity was the multiple vendors using the event for advertising and the "future of hygiene" eating it up!
The first segment of the event was presented by, Sandra Burns, whom I believe was trying to focus on the topic of diversity. As I sat and listenined with the class, I began to notice a tense and uncomfortable presence. As she continued with her slides from the "Jim Crowe" museum, the uncomfortable presence became stronger. In my opinion, she did a poor job in balancing the topic between ALL races. At this point I decided to excuse myself from the table to take a breather, it was at this point that I realized the I was not alone. I began to speak with some fellow U of D Mercy students and they shared with us that even their instructors were offeneded and disagreed with the choices of Mrs. Burn's presentation. Though this was dissappointing, we will try again next year.
One of my round table discussions was presented by Diane Hanger, RDH, from the Michigan Department of Corrections. She was very honest in sharing with us what it was like to provide care for the prisoners in Jackson, MI. She explained that some are grateful for her work while others can be quiet disrespectful(spit, swear, sexual comments). When all said and done I will be honest, I do not not believe that i am mentally equipt to work in this type of environment.
Keeping it honest, my favorite part of the trip was getting the opportunity to hang out and bond with my new friends/classmates. It was a great time and looking forward to doing it again soon!
Posted by ambemari at November 19, 2006 01:51 PM
Comments
p.s. Maxie wrote that comment!
Posted by: mroumani at December 3, 2006 06:47 PM
Amber,
I had no idea that RDH's go to prisons to provide care. Well, I guess it makes sence that they go, but for some reason I never thought about it. What exactly do they do with the prisoners? Your round table not only sounds like it was intersting, but sounds like you learned a lot. I am curious as to why a dental hygiensit would want to work at a prison and be treated so poorly. I wonder if she has any affect on the prisoners as to thier oral hygiene and even with their problems. You think they tell her what they did to get into prison? haha. I'm very interested and excited that you got to sit at this roundtable!
Posted by: mroumani at December 3, 2006 06:45 PM
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