AOA Critical Issues Symposium: Allyship in Action

As orthopaedic surgeons, we embrace a lifestyle and career defined by action, seeking to improve not only our patients’ lives but also our profession. One critical area where we can improve lies in diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). Despite mounting evidence of the profound value that diverse teams bring to innovation, problem-solving, and patient care, orthopaedics has lagged behind most medical specialties in achieving a representative workforce. Addressing this disparity is important in advancing our profession and improving the equitable treatment of our patients. Recognizing this imperative, the American Orthopaedic Association (AOA) hosted a DEI symposium in June 2024, in conjunction with its annual meeting, that brought together orthopaedic surgeons, researchers, and educators to build upon the importance of creating inclusive spaces in order to ensure that diverse voices are present and are actively contributing to the future of the profession of orthopaedics. A standout feature of the 2024 symposium was a fireside chat format that was accompanied by dynamic audience participation, offering valuable insights and actionable strategies drawn from both the business world and medical oncology. These fields have made substantial strides in promoting diversity and inclusivity, providing a model for orthopaedics in overcoming similar challenges. The discussions illuminated the critical concept of allyship and examined the tangible steps that individuals and institutions can take. Allyship, as emphasized during the forum, requires deliberate, sustained effort. It is an active commitment to understanding and supporting underrepresented individuals and groups within the orthopaedic community. This means listening to their experiences, challenging biases, and working collaboratively to dismantle structural barriers. For institutions, it involves cultivating policies, mentorship opportunities, and recruitment strategies that prioritize equity and that reflect the diverse patient populations that we serve. By embracing allyship and adopting lessons from other fields, this symposium demonstrated opportunities to transform our profession and the lives of those who depend on our care, ensuring that our actions align with the ideals that we strive to uphold.