Recently, my husband and I passed through Eureka, IL (pop. 5,200). We stopped at Eureka College, which is President Ronald Reagan’s alma mater and the host of the Ronald Reagan Museum. As visitors to many presidential libraries, we thought this sounded like an interesting place. It did not disappoint.
On display were many photographs, documents, letter sweaters (the “Dutch” played football for Eureka College), and more, including quotes. The posted quotes immediately caught my attention.
Here are a few highlights.
“All of the immigrants who came to us brought their own music, literature, customs and ideas. And the marvelous thing, a thing of which we are proud, is they did not have to relinquish these things in order to fit in. In fact, what they brought to America became American. And this diversity has more than enriched us; it has literally shaped us.”
“We do not lump people by groups or special interests. And, let me add, in the party of Lincoln, there is no room for intolerance and not even a small corner for anti-Semitism or bigotry of any kind. Many people are welcome in our house, but not the bigots.”
“Respect for human rights is not social work; it is not merely an act of compassion. It is the first obligation of government and the source of its legitimacy.”
Simply striking. Profound. And sadly, what a contrast to today.
The service of humanity
On a related note, this brings to mind our physicians’ oath, which we recite at white coat ceremonies and convocations. It begins, “As a member of the medical profession, I solemnly pledge to dedicate my life to the service of humanity; The health and well-being of my patient will be my first consideration,” and it continues for 11 more lines.
So, what does this mean, “the service of humanity?” The meaning of “humanity” can refer to the human race and humankind. “Humanity” also refers to the quality of being humane, benevolent, and kind. Synonyms include sympathy, tenderness, and goodwill. The ideals that President Reagan espoused in his quotes could be considered in this light. Certainly, as physicians, there are many, many ways we each can do this, whether it is in the exam room, the board room, the halls of government, or as volunteers in some other capacity.
Courageous humanity in action
These principles are further emphasized by the recent testimony from Minnesota physicians, do take a listen if you have not already. Their sentiments, and their courageous humanity, are further described in their recent letter to the New England Journal. If you have not seen it, please take a look. These physicians rose to the occasion, when faced with unexpected and unbelievable challenges. We could all do well to aspire to stand together with them in defense of our oath. As they said, “We care for the people of Minnesota, regardless of whether we share our patients’ opinions or immigration status or religion or political views. We care for our patients because they are human beings.”
More evidence of benevolence arose in Minneapolis. After witnessing released detainees step into extreme cold temperatures without proper clothing, phones, identification, or transportation, volunteers saw a need and havenwatch.org was launched. Released detainees were helped into warm cars by volunteers, and provided phones, coats, and rides. There are many ways to serve humanity.
It is important to be clear: What happened in Minneapolis was not a “Minnesota issue.” This could happen anywhere.
ACP upholds longstanding principles, including physicians’ ethical duties to care for all, and society’s obligation to ensure equitable and universal access to health care. ACP also affirms health as a human right grounded in the dignity and equality of all patients and stands in opposition to policies and actions that contribute to harm or interfere with the delivery of medically appropriate care.
ACP President Emeritus, Dr. Ryan Mire, used “humanity” as one of his pillars guiding his priorities during his presidency. What did Dr. Mire mean? In 2025, he gave eloquent remarks at the University of Tennessee’s white coat ceremony that further elucidated his thinking. As he said, “Strive to be more connected to your patients than your electronic devices. Your ability to impart empathy, compassion, trustworthiness, and humility is encompassed in the humanity that is required to be a true healer, treat your patients with the respect they deserve as human beings.” Yes, Dr. Mire, one thousand times yes.
A call to action
Thank you, former President Reagan and Eureka College. Thank you for the Ronald Reagan Museum. We are humbled by President Reagan’s words. So, what do we do?
We dig deep, and find our calling, embedded in our oath. It may be how we approach our patients, our colleagues’ patients, our practices, or our advocacy. We may be moved to volunteer.
We blanket ourselves in courageous humanity. And we strive to practice it in all our affairs.
Janet A. Jokela, MD, MPH, completed her term as ACP Treasurer at IM 2025. She serves as professor and senior associate dean of engagement at the Carle Illinois College of Medicine, Urbana, IL. She may be reached on BlueSky @drjanetj.bsky.social.
The American College of Physicians is the largest medical specialty organization in the United States, boasting members in over 145 countries worldwide. ACP’s membership encompasses 163,000 internal medicine physicians, related subspecialists, and medical students. Internal medicine physicians are specialists who utilize scientific knowledge and clinical expertise for diagnosing, treating, and providing compassionate care to adults, spanning from those in good health to individuals with complex illnesses. Stay connected with ACP on X @ACPIMPhysicians, Facebook, LinkedIn, and Instagram @acpimphysicians.
