Equity & Inclusion Statement
The Brown lab recognizes that deep and systemic biases and barriers exist within society and the research community that limit opportunities for underrepresented groups to pursue education, training, and careers in STEM. Members of the Brown lab are committed to creating a culture, both in our laboratory and in the greater research community to which we belong, that is free from such discrimination. Only when every member of our community feels valued, respected, and supported, will we fully experience the positive impact that diversity in experience, culture and knowledge can have on our professional and personal lives.
Lab members are committed towards equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) through:
Training
- Seek opportunities for self-directed and formalized training in inclusive language and workplace practices to promote EDI
- Learn to assess, acknowledge and strive to overcome inherent biases in our workplace and everyday lives
- Practice open communication and sharing of acquired knowledge so, collectively, we can recognize and overcome inequities
Engagement
- Commit to formal and informal discussion of EDI, self-reflection, and acknowledgement of our own personal privilege
- Acknowledge that teams that embrace EDI experience enhanced creativity, productivity and success
- Recruit, include, and support people from historically underrepresented groups in STEM
- Actively support colleagues in their efforts to improve EDI in academia and be an ally to underrepresented groups
Accountability
- Use and insist that others also use language that is inclusive and respectful
- Openly seek and give space to hear the perspectives of colleagues
- Contribute to a workplace that is welcoming to all individuals