To the American Psychological Association (APA) and its Commission on Accreditation,
We, the undersigned psychologists, psychology students and trainees, and individuals contemplating entering the profession, address you with profound disappointment and a sense of deep misrepresentation. The APA, an organization meant to champion our interests and the well-being of those we serve, has instead chosen to undermine both with its recent decision to suspend accreditation standards related to diversity in recruitment, admissions, and retention. The entire text of the APA’s actions to withdraw diversity support and protection from training programs can be viewed here.
While we recognize that the APA’s decision may reflect a well-intentioned desire to protect training sites, we have determined that it does not align with the profession's core commitment to inclusive practices and equitable representation. The decision demonstrates a failure to advocate for the profession’s members, and a disregard for the diverse communities we are committed to supporting.
The impact of this decision will be far-reaching, disproportionately affecting already marginalized groups, including people of color, religious minorities, LGBTQ+ individuals, veterans, and individuals with disabilities. Furthermore, it threatens to erode the modest gains we have made in diversifying the profession in recent years.
Therefore, we demand that the APA:
Immediately rescind the temporary suspension of accreditation standards related to diversity.
Actively demonstrate its commitment to support and protect all members of our community, using the influence and resources that we have afforded it to defend our values through legal actions, collective organizing, and policy statements.
We, the undersigned, pledge that if the APA fails to meet these demands by the start of the next APA convention in Denver on August 7, 2025, we will cancel our APA membership.
Furthermore, those of us who are not currently APA members declare that we will forgive the organization's missteps and endeavor to join the APA if it unequivocally rescinds this policy change and makes clear its genuine intention to fight for us and the values our profession purports to uphold.
This action will serve as a clear message that we will not tolerate the abandonment of ethical principles and the failure to represent the diverse interests of the APA’s members. It also offers a path toward reconciliation, and a stronger, more unified professional organization, provided the APA chooses to take it.
We urge the APA to choose accountability, transparency, and ethical leadership—and to resist all threats to our values. The future of our profession, and its ability to serve all communities, depends on it.
Dr. Amy, Psy.D.
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