American Psychological Association apologizes for its role in systemic racism, pledges work to correct

The American Psychological Association made a historic apology for its contributions to systemic racism, October 29, 2021.

The American Psychological Association failed in its role leading the discipline of psychology, was complicit in contributing to systemic inequities, and hurt many through racism, racial discrimination, and denigration of people of color, thereby falling short on its mission to benefit society and improve lives. APA is profoundly sorry, accepts responsibility for, and owns the actions and inactions of APA itself, the discipline of psychology, and individual psychologists who stood as leaders for the organization and field. READ MORE

The APA Council of Representatives adopted its apology for APA’s role—and the role of the discipline of psychology—in contributing to systemic racism. The apology acknowledges that the APA:

…Failed in its role leading the discipline of psychology, was complicit in contributing to systemic inequities, and hurt many through racism, racial discrimination, and denigration of people of color, thereby falling short on its mission to benefit society and improve lives.

The decision of the Council was unanimous. Executive Development Group partners Drs. Randall P. White and Sandra L. Shullman participated in the Association’s decision and process of drafting the apology and two additional resolutions, one delineating psychology’s role in dismantling systemic racism and one to advance health equity in psychology.

Dr. Shullman is past President of the Association and had a primary role in leading the work toward the resolution.

With diversity, equity and inclusion being vital to leadership development, this represents an important commitment to the work of consulting psychologists. Executive Development Group will continue to bring findings of the Association’s research and recommendations to all facets of our practice of leadership curriculum, executive coaching, and leadership consultation.

We’re proud to be part of this monumental action and encourage our clients to celebrate the initiative.

Resources for more information on the APA apology and resolutions.