New York, January 9, 2025: The Healthcare Leadership Summit and Technical Workshop, hosted by Northwell Health on January 8, 2025, brought together leaders from the healthcare industry to address forced labor risks within healthcare supply chains. The summit, held in New York, featured powerful discussions on fostering ethical practices and transparency in supply chains, marking a significant step forward in combating labor trafficking.
Opening Remarks: A Call for Systemic Change
The event commenced with remarks by Katherine Chon, Director of the Office on Trafficking in Persons at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, who stressed the healthcare sector’s vital role in addressing forced labor. Dr. Debbie Salas-Lopez, Senior Vice President of Community Wellness and Population Health at Northwell Health, followed with a compelling message, urging leaders to prioritise integrity and human dignity.
The summit coincided with National Human Trafficking Prevention Month, an annual campaign aimed at raising awareness about human trafficking and mobilising efforts to combat this global issue.
Harold D’Souza: A Voice for Justice
Renowned human rights advocate Harold D’Souza delivered a keynote address that deeply resonated with attendees. Drawing from his personal experiences and professional insights, D’Souza shed light on the red flags, challenges, and solutions related to labor trafficking. His journey, marked by resilience and transformation, inspired a renewed sense of urgency among delegates.
D’Souza called for collaboration among healthcare leaders, Group Purchasing Organizations (GPOs), and supply chain experts to mitigate forced labor risks and uphold ethical practices.
Spiritual Inspiration: Visit to The Brahma Kumaris
Ahead of the summit, Harold D’Souza visited The Brahma Kumaris in New York, where he described the experience as “enlightening and inspiring.” Sister Anjani, who welcomed him, praised his unwavering dedication to his mission, describing him as a symbol of faith and purpose.
A Global Call to Action
Harold D’Souza urged healthcare leaders to prioritise transparency, due diligence, and survivor-centric approaches to build ethical supply chains. The summit provided a collaborative platform for stakeholders to forge partnerships and exchange ideas to address forced labor.
Recognising Leadership
Harold D’Souza’s impactful advocacy has garnered international recognition, including the United Nations Human Rights Hero Award in 2023. His message at the summit reaffirmed his commitment to eradicating modern-day slavery: “Together, we can dismantle the systems that enable forced labor and create a world where freedom and dignity are fundamental rights for all.”
Northwell Health’s initiative to convene such a high-profile summit underscores its commitment to advancing human rights within healthcare supply chains.
