On January 20 and 21, 2025, President Trump by executive order instructed all Federal Government offices to disregard all DEI initiatives; has ordered agencies to combat private-sector DEI mandates, policies, and programs; has eliminated federal funding for a more just and equitable country.
But the need for attention to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion initiatives remains as important as ever in all aspects of life in the USA, especially in health care.
Diversity – the practice and quality of including people from a range of social and ethnic backgrounds. We know that no two people are alike. Our genetic make-up, geographical origins, cultural background, religious practice, economic and educational opportunities, age, and ability make us all different in wonderful ways. This is a reality regardless of Presidential Proclamation and something to be appreciated as we build shared communities, foster creativity, and strive to create an environment where basic human rights are met.
Equity – the notion that everyone should receive the resources they need to succeed, individualized to their own barriers. Ever prevalent, we know that disparities exist in our communities. Gaps in educational opportunities, safe neighborhoods, and economic stability perpetuate long term, generational inequities which we see reflected in health care outcomes, educational attainment, and average income. Our communities are stronger when we close these gaps and aim to provide everyone with the resources to be successful.
Inclusion – the notion that no one is an outsider, everyone is welcome, and there is a sense of belonging. We want people in our communities to feel safe, to feel heard, to feel seen, and to feel wanted. This should be the baseline for us as a society, regardless of Presidential Proclamation.
In the face of this executive order, Healthcare for All Ohioans remains deeply committed to fostering a culture of diversity and equity as we work for a healthcare system that would benefit all persons in Ohio and our country. This includes people of every race, gender, sexual orientation, ethnicity, culture, age, socio-economic status, mental health status, ability/disability, and religion regardless of citizenship status.
We recognize that diversity is what makes our communities bright, and that every person – no matter their background – has basic human rights to live a life of wellbeing. As we continue to fight for universal health care in Ohio, we will continue to:
- Recognize healthcare as a human right,
- Recruit from and engage with diverse communities,
- Strive to create an inclusive organization where all people feel safe, feel heard, and feel like they belong, and
- Advocate for a more equitable healthcare system where all people can access care without worry of cost
On behalf of Healthcare for All Ohioans, Hang in there – We’ve got this together.
Amber Prater, Healthcare for All Ohioans, Health Equity Chair
Bob Krasen, Health Equity Committee Member
Connie Hammond, Health Equity Committee Member
Nancy McCrickard, Health Equity Committee Member
Dena Magoulias, Health Equity Committee Member
