AOTI Working Group on Systemic Racism

We are seeking members to participate in this important group.

In June this year, the World Federation of Occupational Therapists (WFOT) released its Statement on Systemic Racism. In this statement the WFOT condemned systemic racism, stated that it stands in solidarity with the global Black Lives Matter movement and called for racism to be addressed as a global priority. The full statement can be read here.

AOTI welcomes and supports the WFOT Statement on Systemic Racism. Like the WFOT, we stand against racism of all kinds in support of our members, colleagues and service users who are members of diverse ethnic, indigenous and migrant communities. Respect for the rights and dignity of an individual is central to the AOTI Code of Ethics and Professional Conduct and the principles of diversity, equality and advocacy are core to our profession. Systemic racism has a profound impact on the lives, wellbeing and occupational rights of those who experience it. As the WFOT statement highlighted, we as occupational therapists have a responsibility to ensure that we step up as effective allies and are part of the solution to tackling racism. 

Considering the WFOT’s call for the Occupational Therapy profession to play its part in tackling systemic racism, AOTI wishes to establish a Working Group on Systemic Racism to progress this. We are calling for members to volunteer to be part of this Group. We are keen for the Working Group to reflect the diversity within our profession and therefore strongly encourage members from diverse ethnic, indigenous and migrant communities to consider being involved.

The Working Group on Racism will meet 3 times over 3-4 months for an initial period of work. We anticipate that during this time the Group will identify recommendations for the Management Team on how AOTI can achieve progress on this important matter. Due to COVID-19 restrictions meetings will take place via Zoom for the foreseeable future.

If you would like to volunteer to be involved in the Working Group on Racism, please send a brief letter letter outlining your interest and your CV to [email protected].

We look forward to hearing from you.

Odhrán Allen

Chief Strategy Officer