NEABA values diversity and have adopted the ABAI Diversity Policy [abainternational.org] that approved by the Executive Council in 2019. The policy states ”The Association for Behavior Analysis International encourages diversity, equity, and inclusion in the field of behavior analysis broadly, and within the organization specifically. Diversity refers to differences in race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, country of origin, religious or spiritual beliefs, ability, and socioeconomic class. It is expected that all ABAI members as well as non-members who participate in ABAI events treat one another with respect."
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A Letter to our Community Regarding Social justice and #BLM
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George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, Ahmad Arbery, James Scurlock.
All names that have been on the tip of our tongues lately, but don't even begin to list all those affected by systemic racism in America. Racism is a system. A social construct created hundreds of years ago but it is maintained by us (behavior analysts and the global community). Behavior analysts have a unique skill set to be able to analyze contingencies in order to create an environment that promotes just behavior. It is our responsibility to share this knowledge; educate ourselves about racial injustice, racism, diversity, and equity; actively listen to the experiences of Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC), and change our behavior accordingly to better serve BIPOC receiving ABA services.
In order to address racial injustice in our country it will require action beyond one individual. NEABA’s board actively educates themselves on diversity, equity, and inclusion and encourages members to do the same. We are advocating for equitable access to ABA services. We encourage our members and community partners to send a letter to Senator Sara Howard and Senator Jon Arch, the chair and vice chair of the Legislature's Health and Human Services Committee, to advocate for equitable access to ABA services. Finally, you can click here to contact the BACB to advocate for certification testings to be offered in languages represented in your community (see available languages here).
Not only are we personally responsible for engaging in anti-racist behaviors, we are ethically responsible for doing the same. Section 1.05 (d) of the Professional and Ethical Compliance Code for Behavior Analysts states: “… behavior analysts do not engage in discrimination against individuals or groups based on age, gender, race, culture, ethnicity, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, disability, language, socioeconomic status, or any basis proscribed by law.” Also, section 1.04 (a) says, “Behavior analysts are truthful and honest and arrange the environment to promote truthful and honest behavior in others.” Therefore, we do not endorse any acts of prejudice, discrimination, or racism in the workplace and work to create an environment that reinforces social justice and corrects injustice.
NEABA stands in solidarity with all groups fighting injustices and furthering equity for BIPOC. NEABA is an affiliate chapter of ABAI (Applied Behavior Analysis International) and supports their stance on equity in ABA [see here]. NEABA is doing its part in keeping this crucial conversation going. NEABA welcomes any feedback/ suggestions on how we can be more open and honest about access to quality ABA services for those in the BIPOC community.
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Please visit our Resources page for more information.
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