Charge of the ACOI PRIDE Committee

Justification 
The ACOI is committed to supporting all members within the osteopathic internal medicine community. The ACOI PRIDE Committee will support and advocate for the needs and contributions of LGBTQ+ individuals within the broader medical community. Recognizing the impact of systemic inequities on access to care, patient outcomes, and professional development, the PRIDE Committee is vital to fulfilling ACOI’s goal of serving all members and patients with dignity, respect, and fairness.

Objectives

• Assess and advise on policies, practices, and organizational culture to ensure alignment with ACOI’s principles of engagement, inclusion, and belonging, with a focus on supporting LGBTQ+ individuals and other underrepresented groups in medicine.
• Recommend strategies to increase representation in ACOI membership, leadership, and educational programming.
• Promote inclusive practices in recruitment, mentorship, professional development, and recognition of diverse contributions to the profession.
• Advocate for equitable access to healthcare and culturally competent care for LGBTQ+ individuals and underrepresented populations.
• Collaborate with other ACOI committees to advance the work of the PRIDE Committee.
• Work to promote training and awareness opportunities for ACOI members.
• Advise the Board of Directors on actions that further inclusivity and equity within the organization and the osteopathic profession.
• Provide education to support quality care for LGBTQ+ patients.  
• Raise awareness about training opportunities around cultural humility and its incorporation into healthcare education.

Committee Membership

• The Committee shall consist of at least six (6) members selected by the President and approved by the Board of Directors. The President shall designate the Chair of the Committee for a one-year term, which may be renewed.
• Members shall serve a term of one (1) year, with a maximum of two (2) consecutive terms. Term limits may be waived upon recommendation of the President and approval of the Board of Directors.

Accountability

• The Committee shall report to the Board of Directors at least semiannually, providing updates on activities, progress on objectives, and recommendations for further action.
• The Chair, in consultation with committee members, shall determine the frequency of meetings necessary to fulfill the Committee’s charge.

Responsible Staff Person 
An Executive Director or designated staff member shall be assigned to support the PRIDE Committee and may serve as Secretary to facilitate its operations.

Self-Evaluation Plan 
The Committee shall conduct an annual self-evaluation to assess its effectiveness in advancing PRIDE goals within ACOI. This will include a review of committee activities, member engagement, recommendations made, and alignment with ACOI’s mission and strategic priorities.