The Virginia Association for Behavior Analysis (VABA) reaffirms its commitment to fostering an inclusive and equitable environment within the field of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA). VABA believes that diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) are fundamental principles that guide its actions, enhance its work, and strengthen its community.
In 2022, VABA established a committee on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) to promote inclusive, equitable, and just contexts for all individuals and groups within the science and practice of behavior analysis across the Commonwealth of Virginia. The organization underscores its commitment by recognizing systemic racism, implicit bias, and other forms of discrimination (such as sexism, ableism, religious bigotry, and prejudice toward the LGBTQIA+ communities) within society and the field of ABA. VABA acknowledges that these issues impact interactions between professionals, access to graduate training, and the equitable delivery of behavior analytic services. VABA’s definitions of Diversity, Equity, Equality, Inclusion, and Belonging are living concepts designed to grow and evolve as we deepen our understanding of these principles.
VABA is committed to using a behavior analytic lens to address social injustice, systemic oppression, and racial inequities. These initiatives include:
- Providing targeted training and education on DEI for its membership.
- Actively working to increase diversity within its membership and leadership.
- Striving to improve equitable access to behavior analytic services.
- Informing and impacting relevant policy and legislation.
Since the creation of the DEI committee, VABA has actively integrated these principles through several initiatives:
- Bylaws Updated for DEI: In 2023, VABA finalized a comprehensive bylaw revision, focusing on identifying and removing biases, incorporating inclusive language, and formally establishing the DEI Committee.
- Organizational Assessment: In 2024, the board partnered with a DEI consultant to conduct a thorough assessment of VABA to pinpoint areas for growth and enhancement. The DEI Committee is currently working through developing and implementing all recommendations resulting from the process.
- DEI Initiatives and Communication: The DEI Committee actively provides free CEU events featuring speakers from marginalized communities. They also launched their inaugural newsletter in December 2024 and are developing the next issue.
- Commitment to Inclusive Practices: VABA has implemented a content review process for all events and actively engages in ongoing discussions on critical topics to foster a more inclusive and effective behavior analysis practice in Virginia.
VABA remains dedicated to integrating DEI principles into its policies and practices. It will continue to offer CEU opportunities focused on equity-centered practice, anti-oppression frameworks, and intersectional approaches to care. It encourages its members to seek training beyond the minimum requirements.
VABA is committed to transparency regarding its DEI efforts and will continue to hold itself accountable for creating an inclusive and equitable environment for its members, the broader community, and the individuals they serve.