MRC DEI Mission Statement
At the Musculoskeletal Research Center (MRC), we are resolute in our commitment to acknowledging, understanding, and celebrating Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI). As a team of professional researchers, we will not ignore the width and breadth of DEI research available from global experts who validate these priorities. Our mission is to create an environment where the full spectrum of human experiences, backgrounds, and identities are not only welcome but recognized as essential for both team well-being and innovative research practices. We believe that addressing disparities in DEI sectors will help us to cultivate a workplace culture grounded in respect and fulfillment, better serve and appreciate the unique needs of our team and our patients, and improve our research contributions to the medical community.
Diversity
We recognize that diversity encompasses a wide spectrum of identities, including but not limited to race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, socioeconomic background, age, ability, religion, and cultural heritage. We also acknowledge the systemic barriers that have historically limited the representation of individuals from diverse backgrounds in both the medical and research community at large. Therefore, our team is dedicated to creating a space where all individuals feel celebrated and empowered to contribute their unique viewpoints, experiences, and talents with dignity and respect. By embracing diversity, we will embody the mentality that ‘representative science stems from representative scientists.
Equity
We understand that equality is not synonymous with equity. Therefore, in alignment with these values and through continuous and transparent efforts in recruitment, hiring, and training, our goal is to ensure that every team member receives the specific support, mentorship, and resources necessary to achieve success. We also recognize that inequities exist for the patients we work with, stemming from prevalent social, economic, environmental, institutional, and structural barriers, and more. We endeavor to ensure an ethical framework for our research practices that are cognizant of such disparities and their unique impact on our work, ultimately enhancing the quality and impact of our outcomes.
Inclusion
We will strive to create an atmosphere where every individual feels not only welcome but also like an integral part of our research community. By consciously amplifying each other's voices we aim to challenge biases, dismantle stereotypes, and foster more meaningful collaboration among our team. We will also hold ourselves accountable for ensuring the recruitment of patients from marginalized groups in our research practices and work to overcome the obstacles that this might present to the best of our ability. This commitment to inclusion will drive more comprehensive insights that address the complex needs of all pediatric patients and improve the impact of our findings, leading to more effective and equitable healthcare interventions for all.
As a world-class medical institution at the forefront of transformative education, science, medicine, and health care, we accept that building a truly diverse, equitable, and inclusive environment requires patience, compassion, continuous learning, and self-assessment as opposed to perfection. Accordingly, we realize that this progress will not be seamless or free from setbacks, but we will prioritize a growth mindset that is free of judgment or blame. The MRC is committed to maintaining an open dialogue that meets each individual where they are to help us all reflect on our responsibilities both to one another and to our work. We will hold ourselves accountable for making meaningful progress in our DEI efforts by continuously examining and challenging our practices to ensure they best reflect these values. We believe this is essential to pioneering advancements that reflect the unique needs of all children and their families, ensuring that our work has a lasting and positive impact on pediatric orthopedic care.