23/02/2023
Let's celebrate Black History Month by honoring one of the remarkable individuals recognized tonight at the K. Leroy Irvis Black History Month event at the University of Pittsburgh. John Moon is a true hero who played a vital role in shaping emergency medical care across the region. As one of the original paramedics for Pittsburgh's groundbreaking Freedom House Ambulance Service, he helped to break down barriers and pave the way for more equitable medical care.
As assistant chief of the Pittsburgh Bureau of EMS, Moon continued to make a significant impact by pushing for the recruitment and training of more Black paramedics and emergency medical technicians. He recognized the importance of creating a workforce that better reflects the diverse population it serves.
John Moon's incredible legacy also includes establishing the first minority recruit class offered by the Center for Emergency Medicine 31 years ago. His tireless work has inspired and influenced many, including Sheldon Williams, Pitt Emergency Medicine Program associate professor, who was a member of that class. We are grateful for John Moon's exceptional contributions to emergency medicine and the fight for equity and inclusion.
Let's continue to celebrate and learn from the accomplishments of remarkable Black individuals like him throughout Black History Month and beyond.