ORDRE DES ORTHOPHONISTES ET AUDIOLOGISTES DU QUÉBEC POSITION STATEMENT ON SYSTEMIC RACISM AND DISCRIMINATION

The Ordre des orthophonistes et audiologistes du Québec acknowledges that systemic racism is a serious problem in Quebec, within environments where speech-language pathologists and audiologists work, and its impact must never be ignored. In addition, we strongly oppose discrimination of any kind, regardless of its origin.  Furthermore, equity must extend to every person receiving professional services; accordingly, we adhere to Joyce’s principle, which states that Indigenous people are entitled to receive equal access to all healthcare and social services, free of discrimination, and enjoy the best possible state of physical, mental, emotional and spiritual health.

By the very nature of their field of practice, the speech-language pathology and audiology professions must be inclusive.  Diversity is at the heart of human communication, since it allows us to look at others from an enriched perspective and enhance our understanding of the world; it leads to full development of everyone. Speech-language pathologists and audiologists acknowledge that they play an essential role with respect to this fundamental need.  

As an organization whose primary mission is to protect the public, we are committed to fight actively against racism and all forms of discrimination, by sensitizing and supporting our members, staff and board of directors as they actively assume responsibility for and raise awareness of discriminatory bias that gives rise to prejudice. In addition, we acknowledge that this commitment is based on processes that generate continuous improvement aiming to protect the public in a sustainable manner, especially where professional inspection, training and communication are concerned.

Lastly, we strongly urge government bodies and our colleagues within the professional system to act quickly to ensure that professional services are free of all forms of discrimination. Equity for all is a shared responsibility.