Diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives in the Medical Library Association: a look back at the last twenty-five years

Abstract

Over the past twenty-five years, the Medical Library Association (MLA) has pursued a range of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives. This article, written by members of the Journal of the Medical Library Association (JMLA)’s Equity Advisory Group (EAG), outlines significant measures taken to raise awareness about specific concepts, opportunities, and challenges related to DEI among MLA members. Topics discussed include the impact of influential Black, Indigenous, and people of color (BIPOC) leaders, the establishment of DEI and social justice-focused membership communities, and specific initiatives led by various working groups and committees which have served to strengthen MLA’s commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion during the last three decades.

Keywords

• diversity
• equity
• inclusion
• history
• retrospective
• social justice