Shweta Harvi (Pacific University); Marjorie Edwards (Pacific University); Saje Davis-Risen (Pacific University); Kathryn Bell (Pacific University)
Issue to be addressed: Following George Floyd’s murder, graduate students of health professions at a private university wanted to address the systemic racism in healthcare and their education.
Method: Student leaders developed and distributed a survey to assess how systemic racism and bias in healthcare are taught in their programs, identify the ways that marginalized people experience racism and oppression on campus, and demand change. Questions included respondent role, program, need for a new course, topics for inclusion, and whether it should be mandatory.
Observations/outcomes: 850+ people from 10+ programs completed the survey and agreed with the call to action. 170 respondents provided additional comments and examples of bias. Following these results, student leaders collaborated with the university’s administration to develop a course to run in fall 2020 .
Conclusion: The need for improvement in creating a culture of equity, diversity, and inclusion was demonstrated. These issues can be best addressed when student leaders and university administration work together.
View the presentation recording below.
