President Geller’s study of racism in the APA, which involved a review of past APA presidential addresses, brought to light a long-term pattern of racism in the organization.5 On January 18, 2021, Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, the APA acknowledged and apologized to psychiatrists, patients, and the public for its history of engaging in and passively condoning racist behavior.6 The APA has committed to being better informed about diversity and inclusion at every level. Lastly, hired consultants with expertise in diversity and inclusion are working with APA staff at every level so that the environment can be a welcoming and comfortable workspace for recruiting and retaining a diverse workforce.
Although it may seem that the APA has engaged in many antiracist activities in a brief period, there is much more to accomplish. The Task Force hopes that the work will speak for itself and will be sustained over time. It’s long overdue.