Confronting Taboo Topics in Communication Sciences and Disorders: How Conversations Can Uncover Cultural Blind Spots

Abstract

An increase in social justice movements has renewed the focus on topics surrounding diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in the speech, language, and hearing sciences. For example, the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association publicly renewed its commitment to advance DEI initiatives. This commitment includes restructuring the certification maintenance standards around these initiatives and the standards of graduate education on cultural responsiveness. Despite these requirements, there remains a slow movement toward impactful and sustainable changes. One explanation is the hesitation to engage in conversations that are difficult and often considered taboo. This article aims to discuss taboo topics in communication sciences and disorders related to race and racism, privilege, and support through allyship.