Jennifer Petitt, Senior Program Manager, AIBS SPARS
This piece is one in a series of blog entries called “BioScience Bytes.” In them, authors provide commentary on topical issues, enlivening the sciences and making science approachable for all readers.
American Institute of Biological Sciences (AIBS) is celebrating Pride Month by highlighting individuals, organizations, articles, & activities that are shining a light on LGBTQ scientific excellence.
In June we are celebrating Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans, Queer, and Others (LGBTQ+) Pride Month. If you are a member of this community, this is a time for celebration of who you are and what has been achieved in the last 50+ years, and for facing the challenges ahead. For allies, which is how I consider myself, this is a good time to reflect on your involvement with and support of the LGBTQ+ community and how you might become a better ally.
What makes you an ally? The Safe Zone Project defines an ally as “a (typically straight and/or cisgender) person who supports and respects members of the LGBTQ+ community. We consider people to be active allies who take action on in support and respect.” Allies are important in all areas of life, but particularly in STEM, because research has shown that LGBTQ+ people appear to be underrepresented in STEM. Diversity is a strength, and science works best when all voices and experiences are part of the endeavor.
Whether you are a new ally or someone who attended their first Pride event 20+ years ago, it’s always a good idea to familiarize yourself with current terminology by reviewing a vocabulary glossary such as this one, provided by The Safe Zone. Another great resource is the Oregon Health & Science University inclusive language guide.
Also, consider how you can demonstrate that you are an ally to your students and colleagues. Easy first steps in the classroom include incorporating an inclusivity syllabus statement and asking students to let you know if they prefer you use a different name from what is listed in the online classroom-management tool (be sure to use them!). In general, use inclusive language and don’t let questionable language go unchallenged. Your institution may already have resources for allies, but you can also find resources online, such as this one from the University of Oregon.
There are also STEM-focused LGBTQ+ organizations. These provide support to LGBTQ+ students and professionals in STEM by providing a wealth of information, support, and workshops, among other offerings. Please visit these sites to learn more ways to help and consider making a donation.
Find out more about our commitment to increasing inclusion, diversity, equity, acceptance and accessibility (IDEA2) in the biological sciences.