Cultivating diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility (DEIA) is a guiding priority of ASHG. By championing these values, we maintain our vision that “people everywhere realize the benefits of human genetics and genomics research.”
At the Board Meeting in November, the Board approved transitioning the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Task Force to the Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Accessibility Committee. In addition, the a refreshed DEIA Action Plan was approved, which works to foster diverse, equitable, accessible, and inclusive environments and scientific priorities within the Society and across the research community. This latest Action Plan reflects the goals and objectives of the refreshed ASHG Strategic Plan 2023.
In this third installment of the Action Plan, below are our core strategic areas that emphasize continued and enhanced priority actions:
- Acknowledge historical and contemporary structural inequities linked to human genetics and genomics,
- Foster and strengthen pathways for genetics and genomics research professionals from diverse and underrepresented backgrounds,
- Sustained emphasis on increasing diversity and inclusion in cohort studies and genomics research participation,
- Increase knowledge and professional education opportunities for members.
“I am thrilled that amidst these times of uncertainty and debate around DEIA, we at ASHG will continue to embrace, integrate, and strengthen these necessary values across our activities, programs, and partnerships of the Society,” says Athena Starlard Davenport, PhD, Chair of the DEIA Committee. “We are making important progress and will continue this work through implementation of the updated DEIA Committee Action Plan.”
Across our organization, and at every level, ASHG is committed to deeply embedding DEIA into our strategies, practices, and culture. It is becoming increasingly woven into all we do, and who we are.