The Council of Representatives (COR) met on February 26–27, 2022, over Zoom. As structured, the format was somewhat limiting for informal discussions among members, although members could chat to the group as a whole. Caucus meetings were also held virtually.
Prior to the COR meeting, finance webinars were presented that provided updates on the current financial health of the organization. Although there will be a balanced budget that the Board of Directors will vote on for 2022, one item regarding membership dues is worth highlighting. Memberships are increasing in number, but dues revenues are actually declining due to the dues structure that provides reductions for early career members. As a result, Treasurer Jean Carter suggested that there may be a revisiting of the 60-40 split in dues between APA Services, Inc., (APASI, APA’s advocacy association) and the (c)3.
The sessions began with the Council of Representatives receiving a comprehensive audit of current anti-racism activities by APA, including policies, practices, and procedures aimed at stemming racial inequities and promoting equity, diversity, and inclusion. This was the next step in a process detailed in a resolution Council passed in October that accompanied an apology for past racist actions and omissions by APA and the discipline of psychology.
COR’s business items included a resolution to express solidarity with the National Psychological Association of Ukraine, the Ukrainian people, and colleagues in the Eastern European region, as the Ukrainian nation defended itself against military invasion. Agenda items taken up as new business included a vote to remove the question on the APA membership form asking if applicants have been convicted of a felony. Proponents of removing the question argued that it was discriminatory, deterred otherwise qualified people from joining the association, and needlessly stalled the process of becoming a member. Other key matters of policy included accepting a report by the Task Force on Climate Change, adopting a policy on population health, and reaffirming APA’s support for women’s reproductive rights and health, including the right to legal abortion. Each of these items passed with unanimously or with a substantial majority.
After a debate outlining the pros and cons of a bylaws change to allow associate members to vote after one year of membership, Council voted to pass the item, which will now be forwarded to the APA membership for a vote in November. The item will be included in the ballot along with a pro/con statement, so that members will have the opportunity to learn about its potential benefits and drawbacks. To pass, a two-third majority will be required of all those who vote.
The following guidelines were adopted: Guidelines for Assessment and Intervention with Persons with Disabilities; Guidelines for Child Custody Evaluations in Family Law Proceedings; Guidelines for Ethical Conduct in the Care and Use of Nonhuman Animals in Research; Guidelines for Ethical Conduct of Behavioral Projects Involving Human Participants by High School Students.
Not directly tied to COR, but of interest to Division 20, is a current proposal by the Policy and Planning Board that would change the structure of COR from its present composition as a body representing Divisions, SPTAs, and EMPAs to an “assembly”-like structure with slates developed by a central nominating committee. This new structure’s organization would consist of five “pillars” representing the major areas within the field. There is currently a comment period so if you would like to share your views on such changes, please let us know.
Finally, many of the proposals introduced by the Council Effectiveness Work Group are under consideration and are being addressed by two task forces that will present recommendations to COR; Susan is chairing one of these task forces, which will present its report at the August 2022 meeting.
If you have any questions or concerns you’d like to share about the issues raised at this meeting, feel free to contact either one of us.