OTDiversity + Inclusion

Students, faculty and staff all have a role & responsibility in creating a safe and inclusive classroom environment. The department is committed to fostering a safe and inclusive classroom environment, through the following routes:

Mandatory Implicit Bias Training for 1^st year students

Monthly meetings with the chair

Student-faculty liaison

Bi-annual student faculty meetings

Rush OTs in Action (ROTA) Committee

Despite our best efforts microaggressions/bias may occur in the classroom by students or faculty. These are often committed by well-intentioned people; however, it is critical they are addressed to minimize harm or reoccurrence. A microaggression is defined as a subtle, powerful, and often unintentional form of discrimination (Wong et al, 2014). If a student experiences a microaggression it is recommended the student consult directly with the offending party. We understand these conversations can be challenging and students are encouraged to use strategies from the Implicit Bias training which occurs the first semester or use strategies found here to help effectively navigate these conversations.

Even with these supports a student may not feel comfortable bringing a microaggression/bias up to a faculty member given the inherent power dynamic. In such case the students can bring this to the attention of the faculty anonymously via the inclusivity and effectiveness survey provided in the course learning management system. This information will go to that course director only. The faculty member is encouraged to address this feedback with the cohort but how they address it is at their discretion. If faculty have questions of how to address this feedback, they are encouraged to talk to the department chair, discuss at a faculty meeting, or with a member from the Racial Justice Action Committee (https://www.rush.edu/about-us/diversity-equity-and-inclusion/racial-justice-action-committee-resources). Students may also consult the department chair with any ongoing concerns after these routes have been exhausted. For issues related to discrimination or harassment, you can also contact the Office of Institutional Equity at institutional_equity@rush.edu or call the Rush Hotline to register a complaint at (877) RUSH-009.

Wong, G., Derthick, A. O., David, E. J. R., Saw, A., & Okazaki, S. (2014). The what, the why, and the how: A review of racial microaggressions research in psychology. Race and Social Problems, 6(2), 181-200.

Additional Supports within Rush University Include:

Student Diversity & Community Engagement

Armour Academic Center

600 S. Paulina St., Suite 984

Chicago IL, 60612

Phone: (312) 942-0725

Email: student_diversity@rush.edu