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The Pitt OT Occupational Justice (OJ) Discussion program was designed to create a more inclusive learning and work environment and a department-wide culture that not only understands that justice, equity, diversity and inclusion (JEDI) are essential but creates connection and real belonging. The OJ Discussion program serves as a space for students, faculty and staff to reflect, share thoughts and act on issues related to JEDI and health disparities. Since fall of 2020, the Department of Occupational Therapy – over 400 students across all four of the department’s curricula and over 30 faculty and staff – have come together at least twice each term, meeting in small groups to discuss written, video and podcast materials on issues of inequity and injustice in our society. Topics included, “How racism makes us sick,” “Microaggressions and how to eliminate them,” “What is gender affirming health care?,” “Undocumented immigrants & DACA recipients in the U.S.,” “Weight bias and body shaming” and “Why do we call Asian Americans the Model Minority?”.

Students are the key to the success, sustainability, and creativity of Pitt OT’s OJ Discussion program. With the guidance of Assistant Professor Jennifer S. White, over 90 students have been mentored as content creators and discussion facilitators. Students have developed multi-modal learning discussion modules (written, video and podcast materials) that address issues of inequity and injustice and have been trained in how to create a “risk-friendly” environment and facilitate open, respectful conversations of potentially challenging, sensitive or controversial topics. Student facilitators have commented that they feel more confident in leading difficult discussions after the program and hope to bring these discussions to their work environments after graduation. Additionally, in an end of year survey, students, faculty, and staff frequently comment on how OJ discussions have changed their thinking. The following is one example of what students think about the value of participating in the OJ discussions:

 “This club has really changed the way I’m going to care for my patients. I’m very thankful to have had the opportunity to discuss these topics and bring them into the OT department where I work.”