DIVERSITY, EQUITY & INCLUSION

Reach Out and Read San Diego is committed to providing diverse books to all children. When children see themselves in books; it empowers them. It is a priority that program books reflect the widest possible representation of the children and families we serve, with stories that are relevant and engaging. We are committed to accurately reflect a diverse range of identities, languages and cultures. Children can learn about different communities and cultures, that they might not encounter, through books. When children are exposed to different cultures in books, we have the opportunity to talk about diversity and racism.

The AAP holds that racism harms everyone, including children of all races and ethnicities. It is not a conversation that can be avoided, said Joseph Wright, MD, MPH, FAAP, a member of the AAP Board of Directors and past chair of the AAP Task Force on Addressing Bias and Discrimination. In 2019, AAP published the policy statement, “Racism and Its Impact on Child and Adolescent Health.” In it the AAP lays out an agenda calling for equitable policies at the local, state and federal level to reduce disparities and advance social justice.