Skip to main content

Feature-DEI-800x300.png

Growing up, whenever Rachel Herron, PT, DPT, walked into a clinic, she noticed everyone around her. As a woman of color, she rarely saw herself reflected in what she saw.

"I didn't see my first brown physical therapist until I got to PT school. Seeing her was like seeing a unicorn," she says. "It changes your sense of safety and comfort. If you see yourself reflected, you feel there's more of a chance you won't be harmed in the experience. Maybe they are less likely to say something offensive, even if it wasn't intentional. It makes a difference."

Log in or create a free account to keep reading.


Join APTA to get unlimited access to content.


You Might Also Like...

Resource

Resources for Teaching Cultural Competence in Physical Therapy Education

Feb 4, 2025

Cultural competence isn't a destination; it's a journey that never stops.

Perspective

Lessons in Strength and Community

Dec 12, 2024

My life experiences as a Native American have enriched my professional abilities as a PT — and vice versa.

News

Embracing Divine Dissatisfaction: The Fifth Annual Woodruff Lecture

Jun 17, 2024

Recognizing that so many feel discouraged at growing resistance to DEI efforts, lecturer Julian Magee challenged the profession to turn discontentment