ASHT DEI Strategic Plan

It is with sincere gratitude that the ASHT DEI Committee presents its strategic plan for advancing diversity, equity and inclusion in ASHT and the occupational and physical therapy professions.

In 2020, the ASHT Board of Directors, a select task force and staff began a conversation on steps to take to move from words to strategies and actions. In examining what made other allied organizations successful in their DEI efforts, the board identified the need for a strategy to build DEI efforts across ASHT. In 2021, the board took the important action of proposing a change to the Society’s bylaws that added a standing Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Committee to its governance structure.

Our work began in August 2021 with the aim to thoughtfully infuse DEI principles throughout ASHT and the specialty, with the goal of ultimately supporting the equitable provision of hand and upper extremity rehabilitation.

Our work began with research, analysis and engagement of therapists, surgeons and other key ASHT stakeholders through surveys, interviews and listening sessions, and led to creating overarching goals and action items that provide a plan for ASHT to implement and reference to achieve long-lasting accessibility and inclusivity.

The work of the ASHT DEI Committee has been focused on how to address the needs within the scope of ASHT as a whole, while honoring the perspective of all members. We recognize this is a challenge in itself.

The plan presented here is imperfect as it stands. It is a working plan that needs to continue. This was challenging but vital work, and we are grateful to the dedicated committee members who shared their perspectives, experiences and ideas to create ASHT’s first DEI Strategic Plan. But this is only the beginning. As a next phase, the committee will focus on strategy implementation – where we will explore role identification, responsibilities, actions and initiatives, timelines, metrics and the resources needed to execute the strategic plan.

We appreciate the board’s support and commitment to moving these strategic concepts into action and outcomes that will make ASHT a more inclusive, welcoming organization that is strengthened by the diversity and engagement of our members.

Finally, we recognize that diversity, equity and inclusion cannot reside in one committee, division or area within ASHT or the specialty. The initiatives we will undertake in the months and years ahead will be woven into all areas of ASHT and will be part of the fabric of ASHT and its mission.