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APA 2024: Embracing Inclusivity and Accessibility at the Heart of Psychology
APA is gearing up for its annual convention, APA 2024, with a steadfast commitment to inclusivity and accessibility. As psychology professionals from across the nation prepare to gather in Seattle, we are taking bold steps to ensure that every attendee feels valued, respected, and included.
At the core of APA's mission lies its dedication to equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI). This commitment is not merely a policy, but a guiding principle that permeates every aspect of the organization's work. From strategic planning to daily decision-making, APA strives to create an environment where every voice is heard, and every member belongs.
To translate these values into action, APA has launched several groundbreaking initiatives, including:
- The Accessibility Inclusion Maturity Model, the AIMM offers a systematic, science-based approach to advancing disability awareness and equity across the association.
- The Inclusive Language Guide, which aims to raise awareness, direct learning, and support the use of culturally sensitive terms and phrases that center the voices and perspectives of those who have been historically marginalized or stereotyped.
- The Racial Equity Fund, which supports research, advancing health and educational equity, in addition toinitiatives that strategically align with the Racial Equity Action Plan (PDF, 1.3MB).
These efforts reflect APA’s unwavering commitment to building a more equitable and inclusive future for psychology. As APA 2024 approaches, APA is bringing its EDI values to the forefront of the convention experience.
One of the most exciting additions to APA 2024 is the introduction of an EDI track in the convention program. This track highlights EDI-focused sessions, providing attendees with opportunities to deepen their cultural and emotional intelligence, gain insights into EDI best practices, and engage in meaningful discussions. By prioritizing these critical conversations, we aim to foster a culture of learning, growth, and inclusive excellence at APA 2024.
Recognizing the importance of representation, APA is actively working to center the voices of marginalized communities. Every event on the Main Stage will cover an array of topics with a featured speaker of color, amplifying diverse perspectives and experiences.
The convention will also offer a Accommodations and Disability Resources Room for attendees who identify as disabled and/or neurodivergent, promoting access and equity for all, and ensuring that all APA 2024 attendees have the best possible experience. The room is located in Room 4C-2 in the Wellness Center.
Each session will begin with a land and labor acknowledgement, vetted by the Society of Indian Psychologists (SIP), to foster psychological safety and acknowledge past harms. Quiet spaces will be available for prayer and meditation, ensuring that attendees of all faiths and backgrounds feel welcome and supported.
To ensure a safe and respectful environment for all, APA has also implemented a meeting code of conduct for both in-person and virtual events. Attendees who witness or experience inappropriate conduct can report it to the APA Registration Staff, with the assurance that all allegations of harassment, discrimination, or misconduct will be promptly addressed.
While acknowledging that there is room for improvement in the diversity of our suppliers for convention, APA endorses equal employment opportunity practices and accepts exhibit space applications only from non-discriminatory organizations. This commitment to fairness and equality extends to every aspect of the convention experience.
By coming together to Seattle, our attendees can shape a more equitable future for the field and beyond. Our commitment to all APA 2024 attendees is unwavering, and through ongoing initiatives and program enhancements, the organization will continue to set a high standard for inclusivity, belonging, and connection. Together, we can create a convention experience that truly reflects the diversity and richness of the psychology community.
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