Unlocking the Power of Allyship to Advance Health Equity in Otolaryngology: Building Bridges Toward Belonging

PROGRAM DESCRIPTION: This longstanding panel on inclusive excellence in otolaryngology is updated in 2025 to consider how recent legislative, judicial and societal trends are affecting diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) efforts. New policies and public debate have prompted changes in DEI policies across healthcare, and there is a growing need for allyship and resilient systems. This session explores how policy shifts can affect educational opportunities, workplace diversity, and healthcare outcomes. Panelists will address questions, such as: “What does it mean to be an ally in the current climate?”, “How can we foster a sense of belonging despite structural challenges?”, and “How can organizations adapt to navigate restrictions on DEI initiatives?”

Otolaryngology remains one of the least diverse medical specialties, and allyship strategies are critical for ongoing progress. Allies stand shoulder-to shoulder with their colleagues to catalyze change across professional settings and community, modeling inclusive behaviors as individuals and taking on structural inequities for large-scale change. Specific steps involve supporting historically underrepresented individuals, promoting a sense of belonging, and counteracting biases. Effective allyship requires self-reflection, open dialogue, and critically assessing organizational policies and practices that perpetuate inequities. This session offers innovative strategies.

Panelists will apply an allyship toolbox to case-based vignettes, inviting participant engagement. These examples illustrate how to improve workforce diversity and promote inclusive educational and hiring practices. This session uses evidence-based tools to facilitate crucial conversations and to equip participants with strategies to foster equity in diverse practice settings. Drawing on audience engagement, the session will create a collaborative space for participants to share challenges, insights, and solutions tailored to workplace needs. Doing so can help build pathways for strategic innovation to safeguard core principles in times of change.

OUTCOME OBJECTIVE 1: Describe how recent developments in the health policy landscape are influencing DEI-related programs and the potential implications for otolaryngology -- head and neck surgery

OUTCOME OBJECTIVE 2: Explain how allyship efforts can support diversity and health equity in otolaryngology, drawing on evidence from education, scientific innovation, and clinical practice.

OUTCOME OBJECTIVE 3: Develop actionable strategies to respond as an ally, champion belonging, and promote health equity through actions in the moment and addressing longstanding structural inequities.

BACKGROUND STATEMENT: This session examines how to advance DEI efforts in the current evolving landscape, emphasizing evidence-based practices. Allyship and belonging are critical for sustaining progress, and this panel incorporates proven strategies that can be applied at individual and institutional levels.

Comprehensive Otolaryngology Track Statement : This session to the patient safety and care equity track also aligns with Comprehensive Otolaryngology because allyship and DEI strategies directly impact clinical care, workforce diversity, and patient outcomes. This topic bridges clinical practice, education, and systemic change.