L.A. Care Health Plan, after full review and consideration, unequivocally denounces the recently released Presidential Executive Order on Combating Race and Sex Stereotyping. The executive order stands in opposition to L.A. Care’s fundamental belief that diversity, inclusion and equity in all aspects of life are welcomed, appreciated and valued. L.A. Care believes omitting key elements of the diversity and inclusion training conducted by government agencies and contractors would reverse the progress made in ongoing social justice and reform efforts.
L.A. Care proudly supports one of the nation’s most diverse communities, serving more than 2.2 million members, and the health plan employs a highly diverse workforce that reflects the community it serves. L.A. Care has previously acknowledged systemic racism and its effect on social determinants of health, which leads to poor health outcomes. One of the first steps toward addressing and resolving the challenges presented by these determinants is to acknowledge the history that led to these barriers to good health. If we are to bring true healing and the eradication of racism and sexism, we must educate ourselves on the root causes. This executive order undermines this effort and reduces the responsibility of government agencies and contractors to address these issues and help correct past wrongs.
Our commitment to providing quality, whole person care to our members includes education on all health determinants, be they physical, psychological or social, which are based in science and fact. Education and training must include a truthful acknowledgement of racism, sexism and all forms of bigotry, and their influence on health. L.A. Care will continue to engage our employees, members and providers in meaningful exchanges about equity, where all voices can be heard and all truths are told.