In a policy statement published in Pediatrics, the American Academy of Pediatrics is affirming its commitment that all children have optimal health and well-being and are valued by society.

The “American Academy of Pediatrics Diversity and Inclusion Statement,” published in the April 2018 issue of Pediatrics (published online March 19) recognizes that children are increasingly diverse, with differences that may include race, ethnicity, language spoken at home, religion, disability, special health-care needs, socioeconomic status, sexual orientation, gender identity, and other attributes.

The statement also reinforces the academy’s vision for its 66,000-plus members to practice the highest quality health care, experience professional satisfaction, and enjoy personal well-being. An accompanying commentary was written by AAP senior leaders: Immediate Past President Fernando Stein, MD, FAAP; CEO and Executive Vice President Karen Remley, MD, MBA, MPH, FAAP; and Co-Chairs of the AAP Task Force on Diversity and Inclusion Danielle Laraque-Arena, MD, FAAP, and DeWayne M. Pursley, MD, MPH, FAAP.

The leaders describe the academy efforts that are dedicated toward this mission within the commentary, “New Resources & Strategies to Advance the AAP’s Values of Diversity, Inclusion & Health Equity,” also published online March 19. They emphasize the academy’s core values of promoting diversity, fostering inclusion, and advancing health equity for all. By 2020, more than half of all US children will be racial or ethnic minorities, the leaders note. The AAP stands committed to helping children grow up in a world that cherishes them, fosters safe environments, and frees them from bias and discrimination.