SOM Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging Strategic Action Plan
The Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging Strategic Action Plan charts how the School of Medicine contributes to institutional aims. Three goals describe the climate we seek: Belong. Include. Empower. Nine objectives and 79 tactics provide specific action steps for our academic programs, departments, centers and institutes to get there.
This plan was created in 2021 by the School of Medicine and approved by the School of Medicine Diversity Affairs Committee.
Statement of Shared Understanding
We value the unique contributions and perspectives of all SOM students, staff, faculty, residents, fellows, patients, students, volunteers and local and global communities. Diversity maximizes the school’s potential for innovation, quality patient care, educational excellence and service.
We acknowledge, reflect and confront the inequities of the past, reveal the inequalities of the present, and act for change aiming towards a more equitable environment.
We expect all the School of Medicine’s departments, centers, institutes and programs to take action to make our institution a place where all feel welcomed regardless of national origin, race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, ability and more.
We condemn the ongoing racism, discrimination and violent acts towards historically underserved individuals and groups who experience racism, tokenism and disrespect.
We embrace diversity and seek to take action to create an environment of inclusion and equal access and opportunity to all.
We expect that SOM members treat all with respect, empathy, and seek to understand and appreciate others as the foundation of healthy work and learning environments.
We encourage all individuals to learn about our own forms of bias and search to understand how racism and its far-reaching repercussions affect all aspects of society, including healthcare and research.
We promote the belief that every SOM community member is a good role model that empowers others and sets a high standard of being fair, transparent, and consistently serves as an active bystander mitigating microaggressions and other forms of bias and oppression.
“The School of Medicine is committed to fostering a learning and work environment where all individuals can thrive. I have no question that we can achieve more.” - Leslie Garcia, M.P.A., Ed. D. (c) Associate Dean for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, OHSU School of Medicine
“Giving students this forum to offer their perspective is crucial not only in capturing unique aspects of diversity issues, but also reaffirming that students matter.” - Deepraj Pawar, M.D. Class of 2022, Member of Diversity Affairs Committee