NYSOTA and NYSBOTC stand together with the black community against social injustice and systemic racism! NYSOTA acknowledges the many challenges faced by Black Occupational Therapy practitioners and students both statewide and nationally. As occupational therapy practitioners, we also recognize that systemic racism oppresses and harms the occupational development and functioning of individuals, families, and communities.

In an effort to understand and increase awareness, NYSOTA has nurtured a long-standing relationship with NYSBOTC. Our partnership has driven our commitment to creating an environment in which diversity and inclusion are encouraged, supported and embraced.

These are unprecedented times. Blacks and people of minority communities have been disproportionally affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. And now, the hurt and inequity have been compounded by the senseless murder of George Floyd. The ensuing outrage and cry for justice is a result of racism in America and we must take action now. Actions may include promoting a diverse workforce; voting and participating in all elections to ensure representation (local through national); and acknowledging that "injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere." (MLK)

NYSOTA and NYSBOTC encourage you to stand in solidarity with the black community in the condemnation of oppression, hate, violence, and racism.

Let’s all be the change we want to see.

 

The NYSOTA Board of Directors Flo Hannes, MS, OTR, FAOTA, President David Melchionne-Martinez, MA, COTA/L, Vice President Donna Frazier, MA, OTR, Treasurer Margaret Frye, MA, OTR, Secretary Jeff Tomlinson, OTR, MSW, FAOTA, Trustee, Legislative & Governmental Relations Chair Clover Hutchinson, OTD, MA, OTR/L, Trustee Mildred Consolo-Melchionne, BS, COTA/L, Trustee Mary Devadas, MS, OTR/L, Trustee Debbie Major, Member at Large Michelle Scanlon, Executive Director

The NYSBOTC Board of Directors Clover Hutchinson, OTD, MA, OTR/L, President Paula Stewart, MS, OTR/L, Vice President Jacquelyn Browne, MS, OTR/L, CHT, Treasurer Chesler Fleurant, OTA, Corresponding Secretary Carla Mathis Malcolm, MS, OTR/L, Recording Secretary