Dr. Khalilah Johnson, PhD, MS, OTR/L.
What is your passion and area of practice in OT?
Although my clinical experiences span acute care, inpatient rehabilitation, home health and community settings, my personal and professional commitments center community-based adult practice and research with individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). My passions are influenced by my experiences working with individuals with ID and their families in institutional and community settings.
What is your cultural or racial background? How does this influence you as a person and/or as an OT?
I am African American, born and raised/socialized in the South; so, my cultural orientation is that of Southern dialects, cuisine, music, literature, art, and religiosity/spirituality that bridges antebellum institutions and the African diaspora. These heavily influence my world view and my practice as an occupational therapist; for example, the role of food and Sunday dinners play in African American families and how it may impact feeding interventions in stroke rehabilitation.
What is like being a minority in this profession? Any advice for minority students pursuing a career in occupational therapy?
Thus far, I have had an incredible career as an occupational therapist. The profession is a welcoming body. I believe occupational therapists have a natural propensity to be creative and compassionate people who champion diversity; however, occupying a Black body in a professional capacity is not without its challenges and I believe the profession has ample room for growth concerning inclusivity. I have experienced overt discrimination and racism including being called a N***** by patients as well as occupational therapists. I have had my expertise questioned, even when I was the most knowledge person in the room. I have even been asked if I was a “quota hire” and “who did I know” when offered a clinical position. Often, I am assumed to be housekeeper before a licensed clinician; even after confirming my position, I have been asked if I am an aide versus a registered and licensed therapist. This is not to say that there is anything wrong with occupying those roles. The point is, the initial assumptions made about practitioners of color usually do not relate to being in positions of authority. I would not be honest if I said the constant explaining and proving my value was not exhausting, it is! However, I use these opportunities as teaching moments and opportunities to change minds and hearts on minority occupational therapists.
I encourage minority students to consider the following: (1) don’t just network, build a community of colleagues who have demonstrated inclusive practices and are allies; (2) seek (and request) fieldwork opportunities in diverse settings; (3) don’t be afraid to speak about your experiences with faculty, staff, and administrators; (4) OT is your profession not your life, be a part of communities that support and sustain you; (5) learn your university’s and place of employment’s procedures for handling grievances related to racism and discrimination; and (6) join an AOTA multicultural network group or the Coalition of Occupational Therapy Advocates for Diversity!
One interesting fact about you:
I am a classically trained clarinetist. I graduated high school ranked as the top clarinet in the state of Georgia and opted not to pursue clarinet performance as a major. I declared occupational therapy instead.
Where can we find you online?
Instagram: @TheAcademicDiva
Twitter: @OccScienceBae
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/Khalilah-Robinson-Johnson-PhD-OTRL
VCU feature – https://icubed.vcu.edu/stories/icubed-stories/lift-every-voice/
