A statement regarding Final Rule of Section 1557 of the Affordable Care Act (ACA)
The Affordable Care Act (ACA) of 2010 created federal nondiscrimination rules that were applicable to healthcare and health insurance. The decision on June 12, 2020 rescinded the prohibitions on discrimination against and potentially removes protections for sexual orientation and gender identity. While we denounce discrimination in any form, given that we are in the midst of a historic pandemic, this decision is particularly concerning since LGBTQ Americans are more likely than the general population to live in poverty and lack access to adequate medical care, paid medical leave and basic necessities. In keeping with our mission to create a welcoming, diverse and inclusive environment where everyone who learns, trains, conducts research, teaches, works and seeks care within Washington University School of Medicine, the Office of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion reiterates its commitment to non-discrimination in education, hiring and patient care.
In honor of LGBT Pride Month 2020, our office will be hosting “Stonewall Riots: Learning Lessons from the Past to Inform our Future” on June 24 and June 30. Learn more about these events and register here.
Washington University in St. Louis does not discriminate in access to, or treatment or employment in, its programs and activities on the basis of race, color, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, veteran status, disability or genetic information. (See the Non-Discrimination Statement here.)
Sincerely,
Sherree Wilson, PhD
Associate Vice Chancellor and Associate Dean for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion