WASHINGTON — Following is the statement of Jessica Henderson Daniel, PhD, president of the American Psychological Association, marking Martin Luther King Day:
“Psychology has made great strides toward understanding the causes and consequences of racism and prejudice, yet there is much we still do not understand. When Dr. Martin Luther King addressed the American Psychological Association in 1967, he called for research that would produce more understanding among blacks and whites — a call that remains relevant today, especially given the tone of public discourse regarding immigration and people of color.
“The lack of a critical mass of research psychologists of color and other researchers who understand the various racial/ethnic groups in this country creates a void in our knowledge about the factors that contribute to the success of marginalized groups.
“Research focused on the strengths of the many racial and ethnic cultural groups in the United States would affirm members of those groups and help all Americans better appreciate the commonalities that unite us as a people."
King delivered a historic address to APA’s Annual Convention on Sept. 1, 1967 — a time of heightened social tumult and change. He called racism and its effects "deep ... gigantic in extent, and chaotic in detail" — and challenged social scientists to play a more active role. He urged them to "suggest mechanisms to create a wholesome black unity," and the country to "reaffirm our belief in building a democratic society," adding, "I have not lost hope."
“I have been especially pleased to see so many schoolchildren writing essays this week about Dr. King,” Daniel added. “They are one reason that I, too, continue to be hopeful about our future.”
Daniel is the first African-American woman to be elected president of APA.
The American Psychological Association, in Washington, D.C., is the largest scientific and professional organization representing psychology in the United States. APA's membership includes nearly 115,700 researchers, educators, clinicians, consultants and students. Through its divisions in 54 subfields of psychology and affiliations with 60 state, territorial and Canadian provincial associations, APA works to advance the creation, communication and application of psychological knowledge to benefit society and improve people's lives.