When the Mission Becomes the Movement: The Risk of Politicizing Occupational Therapy
Lately, I’ve been reflecting on a new rhetoric within occupational therapy circles. Specifically, I am seeing messaging that serves as a call for action on social and political issues, and also insists that the occupational therapy profession must become a vehicle for radical change. One recent example came from a group calling itself Diverse-OT National , which published a statement rejecting neutrality and explicitly accusing professional institutions of “collusion” in state violence. I have no objection to anyone advocating for a cause they believe in. I respect passion, and I understand the appeal of movements. But I believe we need to ask a critical question - i s the profession of occupational therapy the right vehicle for this kind of activism? In my view, it is not. And here’s why. 1. Occupational Therapy Is a Health Profession, Not a Political Movement Occupational therapy is built on the foundation of helping people live lives of meaning and participation. We se...