| Popis: |
In the wake of the murder of George Floyd and the COVID-19 pandemic, there is renewed energy and commitment from institutions to create more inclusive, diverse and equitable spaces. One area where such efforts can have a significant impact is department seminar series. Seminar series are a key part of the academic model in the field of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology (EEB). They provide opportunities to both speakers and host departments through disseminating new research, networking, and forming new collaborations. By increasing the diversity of seminar speakers, we can aim to provide these critical opportunities to all members of the EEB community. Here we outline practices that have improved these efforts in our US-based department and additional ideas that can be adapted by other departments and disciplines. 1) Craft a mission statement for your seminar series that includes improving equity, diversity, and inclusion. 2) Evaluate if you are progressing towards that mission. 3) Give students some ownership over inviting seminar speakers. 4) Invite speakers from careers/positions other than senior faculty. 5) Allow speakers from marginalized backgrounds to talk about their research. 6) Offer remote and hybrid formats to speakers. 7) Pay speakers an honorarium. 8) Continue and expand your efforts over time. Incorporating seminar series in our efforts to increase the diversity, equity, and inclusion in the field has the potential for significant impact. |
