Let’s Talk About It: Addressing Microaggressions in Occupational Therapy Education

Abstract

There is an increasing need to diversify the profession of occupational therapy. To do this, we need to examine the pathway to becoming an occupational therapy practitioner in our education programs. Programs must go beyond a focus on diversity and place an equal emphasis on equity and inclusion. Underrepresented minority students report increased racial bias and a high occurrence of microaggressions in higher education programs, including occupational therapy. These microaggressions are often not addressed and can lead to increased stress, insecurity, and marginalization, as well as decreased retention rates. It is imperative that faculty examine the equity and inclusivity of their programs, and they should be supported in addressing their own implicit bias. Faculty, students, and staff should be equipped to address microaggressions as they occur. This article identifies examples of microaggressions and suggests strategies to address implicit bias and microaggressions in occupational therapy programs.