Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, Justice, Accessibility, and Belonging in Occupational Therapy Practice and Education.

Abstract

The occupational therapy profession is well positioned to play a pivotal role in advancing the health and well-being of communities with different lived experiences. The articles included in this special issue on Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, Justice, Accessibility, and Belonging (DEIJAB) in Occupational Therapy Practice and Education provide a snapshot of research and scholarship aimed at interrogating systems and standards of practice and promote evidence-informed strategies to support the unique concerns of nondominant groups. Specifically, authors take stock of practice trends with these populations; describe processes for developing culturally affirming measures; examine the effectiveness of target-based interventions; and articulate the value of applying DEIJAB principles across practice settings, academic programs, advocacy, and professional leadership. Across all of the articles, scholars call on members of the profession to be critically reflective and actively antiracist and to challenge dominant paradigms to shape the future of practice through education, training, leadership, and community partnership.