SEATTLE — After 20 years, Dr. Ben Danielson is stepping down as senior medical director of Seattle Children’s Odessa Brown Children’s Clinic.
KIRO 7 interviewed Danielson over the summer, after delivering face shields.
According to Crosscut, Danielson said he witnessed several incidents of racism, including a higher frequency of security being called on patients of color and the use of the n-word by a hospital administrator several years earlier, which referenced him.
Danielson’s departure has gained the attention of a group of community leaders who sent a letter to the hospital system asking for an investigation into his claims, writing in part: “He was the only high-ranking African American male at Seattle Children’s. Consequently, his abrupt separation from the hospital is troubling.”
The group also stated in the letter, “We also are aware that Dr. Danielson’s leaving closely follows the sudden departure of two other long-time clinicians of color in leadership positions at OBCC. Circumstances which have added to questions now being raised about Seattle Children’s commitment to: equity and inclusiveness; supporting BIPOC communities and the historic mission of OBCC; effective clinic leadership; and the initiatives Dr. Danielson and his colleagues have championed.”
A spokesperson for Seattle Children’s told Crosscut it is examining the issues that have been raised.