The United Nations World Conference against Racism, Racial Discrimination, Xenophobia and Related Intolerance (WCAR) held in 2001 in South Africa highlighted the importance of recognizing the intersectionality of multiple forms of discrimination. Intersectional analysis can be used to include the human rights protections provided for in international conventions within the scope of the Code. To open up the American workplace to historically excluded groups, some employers are using diversity and affirmative action programs. In 1998, the EEOC working group headed by former Commissioner Reginald E.
Wiggins published a report entitled “The Best” Policies, Programs and Practices for Equal Employment Opportunity in the Private Sector. In light of the “double pandemic” of COVID-19 and generational systemic racism, it is essential to create a space where discussions about the fight against racism come to the forefront as part of a program's commitment. This is why a journal club was created in St. Louis, MO to address health disparities in science and medicine. The journal club was evaluated before and after its implementation to measure changes in perception and understanding of topics related to racism and social justice in medicine and science. The journal club is an example of how programs can be designed to address intersectionality and multiple forms of discrimination.
If other program directors want to encourage students to start something similar, it is important to create a space where discussions about racism are encouraged as part of the program's commitment. This will help ensure that all participants are aware of their rights and responsibilities when it comes to fighting racism. By recognizing intersectionality and multiple forms of discrimination, programs like the journal club in St. Louis, MO can help create a more equitable society for all. Through education and awareness, we can work together to ensure that everyone has access to equal opportunities regardless of race or gender.
