APTANJ CULTURAL DIVERSITY COMMITTEE
Join us now to promote diversity.
For our patients.
For our profession.
For our community.
Minorities are underrepresented in the PT profession in New Jersey. New Jersey is one of the most diverse states in the country. In order to best serve the needs of a diverse population, we must promote diversity within our profession and community. In order to alleviate healthcare disparities and improve healthcare outcomes we must also educate ourselves and others in matters of diversity, equity, and inclusion.
What is diversity, equity, and inclusion?
APTA uses the following to define “diversity, equity, and inclusion” based on the Ford Foundation
● Diversity: The representation of all our varied identities and differences — collectively and as individuals.
● Equity: Seeks to ensure fair treatment, equality of opportunity, and parity in access to information and resources for all.
● Inclusion: Builds a culture of belonging by actively inviting the contribution and participation of all people (APTA, 2020).
Reference- American Physical Therapy Association, 2020. Diversity Equity and Inclusion Committee Structure for Components.
Click here to learn more about APTA’s DEI initiatives.
Why join the APTANJ Cultural Diversity Committee?
If you believe there should be equal racial and ethnic representation in our profession to better serve our community - join us today! Understanding our patient’s religious and cultural beliefs is essential for optimizing care.
Cultural Diversity Committee goals:
1. To increase membership of minority PT and PTAs in the APTANJ.
2. To increase minority representation in leadership positions within the APTANJ.
3. To promote education in matters of cultural diversity within APTANJ's member and non-member groups.
4. To promote increased enrollment of minority students in accredited DPT and PTA programs in New Jersey.
5. To provide assistance and support for foreign educated physical therapists to obtain credentialing and licensure.
Member Benefits: Open meetings are held for all PTs and PTAs to attend. However, to formally be a member of the committee you must be an APTANJ member. APTANJ membership is strongly encouraged. Member benefits include:
1. Educational resources and support for you, your patients, colleagues, and community including:
a. CDC Reading list to learn more, educate yourself, and be prepared to make a difference b. Translation services resources for your company or organization.
2. Support your state chapter! APTANJ is committed to DEI initiatives and stands against injustices in society. (get a link to accomplishments)
3. Access to valuable and relevant CEU’s and content.
4. Tremendous networking value to advance your career.
5. As an APTANJ member you will receive significant exclusive discounts on retail items such as cell phone service providers, major appliances, vehicles, computers and more!
Accomplishments:
2020 Review
● Successful Open Meeting on HOD.
● Multicultural Event: Culture Impact on Functional Independence.
12/3/20 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM (~20 participants total)
2019 Review
● Increased membership in the Cultural Diversity Committee.
● Hosted Explore the Magic of Motion at CentraState.
● Co-sponsored Pediatric Cultural Competence Webinar .
● Hosted Multicultural Event.
● CSM presentation on Building the Foundation of a Culturally Diverse and Inclusive profession.
2018 Review
● Increased membership in the Cultural Diversity committee.
● Mercer Comm. College: Student Conclave: Student Networking
● Union County College: African Americans in Health Professions Forum
● APTANJ Spring Conference Multi-Cultural Night
● Eric Legrand Flag Football Tournament Fundraiser
● GSHNJ Young Women of Vision Leadership Breakfast: STEM
● Jersey City Charter School Synergy Program
● Diversity in PT, Women in PT Summit
● APTA Celebration of Diversity
● Explore the Magic of Motion- Woodbury, Jersey City
● UDEL ADAPT Program
● Rutgers South admissions process Focus Group and Interview process
● Cultural Competence lecture for RU South
● Asian Confederation of Physical Therapy Congress
● Bonjour Hola Oh LaLa Language Club became official at Rutgers North.
Leadership:
Leonard J. Somarriba DPT, Chair
Stephanie Long PT, DPT, GCS, Co-Chair
Gina Dubuisson PT, DPT, Outreach Officer and Membership Liaison
Nandini Prasad PT, Communications Officer
Please email any questions or inquiries to culturaldiversityptcommittee@gmail.com.
