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From Third Culture Kid to MD to Children’s Hospital Inclusive Leader: Meet Noteworthy Ally, Dr. Lalit Bajaj
Allyship is the active and consistent support of people who can open doors of opportunity for others. Allies use their influence to advocate for and amplify the voices of those who may not be “at the table”. This active engagement helps others who may not have the social capital to get to financial freedom. For the rest of January, GlobalMindED will be featuring some tremendous allies who are role models for all of us.
Dr. Lalit Bajaj, a leading physician and passionate advocate for equity and inclusion, exemplifies allyship through his commitment to empowering others and fostering diverse communities. Sharing his personal journey of overcoming adversity and embracing diversity, Bajaj inspires others to lead with compassion and create meaningful change.
What is your personal story?
I was born in Lawrence, Kansas in 1969 to Indian immigrant parents. My early life was a journey of global movement. After a brief period in the US, we spent four years in Belgium and two in England due to my parents' academic pursuits. Returning to the U.S., I spent my formative years in Ohio, experiencing firsthand the challenges of navigating a new culture.
Higher education led me to California, where I earned a degree in Biochemistry and a minor in Art History at UC Davis. This was followed by medical school at UCSF and a Master's in Public Health from UC Berkeley. My passion for pediatrics brought me to Denver, where I completed my residency and fellowship in Pediatric Emergency Medicine.
I joined the faculty at Children's Hospital Colorado in 2003, dedicating over 20 years to clinical practice and research. Under the mentorship of Dr. Joan Bothner, I built a research program, transitioning into clinical informatics and quality improvement. Today, I serve as the Chief Quality Officer, overseeing Patient Safety, Clinical Effectiveness, and Health Equity.
I am the proud father of two: Jai Kumar, a journalist, and Alex Ellen, an Environmental Science major at CU Boulder. While my marriage ended in 2017, we maintain a strong co-parenting relationship, prioritizing our children's well-being. Shared passions like live music (especially Austin City Limits) and family gatherings are cornerstones of our lives.
Why is being an ally a core value, and how have you been an ally?
Growing up as a child of immigrants in a predominantly white community, I experienced firsthand the impact of bullying and social isolation. This deeply shaped my understanding of allyship. Recognizing the importance of support from peers, I learned the value of extending kindness and inclusivity to others facing similar challenges.
My career has been enriched by strong female mentors, including Dr. Bothner. Witnessing my mother's strength and independence as a highly educated woman further solidified my commitment to gender equity. I am fortunate to work alongside many inspiring women leaders in pediatric emergency medicine and quality improvement.
What suggestions do you have for men who want to be better allies?
Many men are raised with traditional expectations of masculinity, often leading to unconscious biases. It's crucial for men to actively challenge these norms and recognize the systemic disadvantages faced by women, particularly women of color and those from marginalized communities.
This requires conscious effort:
- Seek out mentorship opportunities for individuals who may not be as vocal or prominent.
- Be aware of unconscious biases and actively work to overcome them.
- Challenge discriminatory behaviors when you witness them.
What is the highest goal you have as an ally leader and role model?
My ultimate goal is to inspire those I support to become powerful allies themselves. By fostering a cycle of mentorship and support, we can create a society where everyone feels valued, respected, and empowered.
How can GlobalMindED help you achieve your goals as an ally and overall as an inclusive leader?
My experience as a panelist at the June 2024 GlobalMindED meeting was profoundly impactful. Witnessing the diverse group of young adults and understanding their aspirations solidified my belief in the organization's mission. GlobalMindED provides invaluable support to aspiring individuals from underrepresented communities, offering them the guidance and encouragement they need to achieve their dreams.
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