DEI in NOTA

What is DEIJAB? 

DEIJAB stands for Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, Justice, Accessibility, and Belonging. It represents a commitment to fostering environments where all individuals—regardless of race, gender, ability, socioeconomic status, or other identities—are valued, empowered, and given equitable opportunities. While diversity focuses on representation, equity ensures fair treatment, and inclusion promotes active participation. Justice addresses systemic barriers, accessibility removes physical and social obstacles, and belonging ensures everyone feels accepted. DEIJAB goes beyond policies, striving to create a culture of respect and shared success.

DEIJAB stands for Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, Justice, Accessibility, and Belonging. It is a framework that guides organizations and communities in creating environments where all individuals—regardless of identity, background, or ability—can thrive. Here’s a breakdown of each component:

• Diversity: Representation of varied identities (race, gender, disability, age, etc.).

• Equity: Fair treatment, opportunities, and access to resources based on individual needs.

• Inclusion: Active engagement and empowerment of all groups in decision-making.

• Justice: Addressing systemic barriers and advocating for structural change.

• Accessibility: Removing physical, social, and attitudinal barriers for people with disabilities.

• Belonging: Cultivating a sense of safety, acceptance, and value for all.

DEIJAB goes beyond basic diversity initiatives by centering justice and accessibility while fostering genuine belonging. It is essential in fields like healthcare, education, and workplace culture to ensure equitable outcomes.

Why is DEIJAB important to OTP?

The importance of DEIJAB in occupational therapy practice  lies in its power to create equitable, client-centered care that respects the unique identities and needs of all individuals. OTPs work with diverse populations facing physical, cognitive, and psychosocial challenges – many of which are influenced by systemic inequities. By embracing DEIJAB principles, OT practitioners can:

- Provide culturally responsive care that acknowledges clients’ backgrounds, values, and lived experiences.

- Address barriers to access by advocating for adaptive equipment, inclusive spaces, and policies that support marginalized groups.

- Challenge systemic injustices that limit participation in daily activities (occupational injustice) for disabled, BIPOC, LGBTQ+, and low-income communities.

- Foster belonging by ensuring clients feel seen, heard, and empowered in their therapeutic journey.

Ultimately, DEIJAB strengthens OT practice by promoting health equity and ensuring every person has the opportunity to engage meaningfully in life.

Coalition for Occupational Therapy Advocates for Diversity

COTAD is an international network of OT practitioners and OT/OTA students. Their mission is to empower occupational therapy leaders to engage in practices that increase justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion (JEDI); anti-racism and anti-oppression for a transformative occupational therapy profession. For more information about the coalition, please visit the COTAD website here.

Resources and Networks for Further Understanding

Multicultural Diversity & Inclusion Network

Asian-Americans & Pacific Islanders in Occupational Therapy (AAPI-OT)

National Black Occupational Therapy Caucus

Network for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender Concerns in Occupational Therapy (The Network)

Network of OT Practitioners with Disabilities & Supporters

Occupational Therapy Network for Native Americans (OT4NA)

Terapia Ocupacional para la Diversidad, Oportunidad y Solidaridad (TODOS) Network of Hispanic Practitioners