EDI advocate Dr. Kassia Johnson finds a platform for change within the Canadian Paediatric Society

Dr. Kassia Johnson, a developmental pediatrician and assistant clinical professor at McMaster University, was honoured at the 2023 Canadian Paediatric Society (CPS) Annual Conference on Thursday, May 25. This prestigious event recognized exceptional physicians from all corners of Canada who have made remarkable contributions to pediatric research, advocacy, health promotion, and education.

Johnson received the Danielle Grenier Member Recognition Award for her outstanding contributions to the CPS and the child healthcare community, with a focus on advancing antiracism.

“In the Canadian Paediatric Society, I have found an organization that is supportive of difficult conversations. The antiracism initiative has been an activity where my disruptive thoughts and voice have found a place where change can happen,” said Johnson.

Johnson, recently appointed as Co-Chair, Diversity and Inclusion of McMaster’s Undergraduate Medical Education Program, is widely recognized as an outspoken advocate and has been influential in advancing anti-racism strategies within her institutions and community.

She is a founding member of the Anti-Racism Coalition (ARC), a team of five pediatricians focusing on meaningful anti-racism and anti-oppression action at McMaster University and McMaster Children’s Hospital through education, institutional change, and growing relationships with equity-seeking groups. She also co-leads the CPS Anti-Racism Strategy and is part of their Early Years Task Force. Johnson also supports the YWCA Hamilton and Hamilton Anti-Racism Resource Centre.

Johnson and pediatricians from across the country gathered at the annual conference held in Halifax, Nova Scotia last week.