Global Pulse Blog

The last keynote of the convention was delivered by none other than former U.S. Surgeon General, Dr. Joycelyn Elders. A passionate speaker, all of us were inspired – and laughing our white coat’s off – with her message.

As I listened to her, I could not help wonder: how different would the U.S. “sick” healthcare system be if we had followed Dr. Elders’ advice? Her warnings on comprehensive sex education and health disparities, to name just a few, have turned out to be correct all along. Of course, many progressive health advocates, including us at AMSA, knew this from the beginning.

Favorite quote of keynote: “Condoms will break, but I can assure you that vows of abstinence will break more easily than condoms.”

There were so many highlights, and so many more memorable quotes, that we have decided to share 3 clips of her keynote address.

Clip #1:

[youtube:http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=txxpmoNVIEM 300 246]

Clip #2:

[youtube:http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=syqkdN7FxQM 300 246]

Clip #3:

[youtube:http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=06EXTLat4M4 300 246]