Diversity and Inclusion in Occupational Therapy: Where We Are, Where We Must Go

ABSTRACT

Diversity is a fundamental element of the AOTA Centennial Vision and a critical aspect for the visibility, growth, and sustainability of the occupational therapy profession. In this article, the authors suggest that, while the profession has been aware of the need for a diverse workforce and has taken steps to increase diversity and cultural competency, a more structured, comprehensive, and action-oriented approach must be considered to address an issue which impacts professional roles and client engagement, satisfaction, and well-being. Informed by the value-added and mutual accommodation models of cultural diversity, the authors provide specific strategies and actions which promote diversity and inclusion at the personal, institutional/organizational, and professional levels.

KEYWORDS:

• Cultural diversity
• education
• students
• professional practice
• organization and administration

About the Authors

Steven D. Taff, PhD, OTR/L, FNAP, FAOTA, Division Director, Professional Education; Assistant Professor of Occupational Therapy and Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA; Daniel Blash, PhD, LPC, NCC, Assistant Dean, Cultural Awareness and Staff Diversity, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA.