June is Pride month and it’s a wonderful time to proactively re-engage in practices of allyship with LGBTQ2IA+ researcher friends and colleagues.
Because LGBTQ2IA+ researchers, particularly in STEM fields, are often at an increased risk of experiencing isolation and exclusion in their research labs, active allyship can be a significant source of support. Practices of allyship could include: educating yourself and others about LGBTQ2IA+ identities; using inclusive language; respecting and using colleagues’ correct names and pronouns; advocating for supportive policies and practices; increasing the visibility of work by LGBTQ2IA+ scholars by citing their work and inviting them to speak at seminars and on panels; and publicly voicing your support and making it visible.
LGBTQ2IA+ researchers themselves often lead advocacy for inclusive practices and mentoring the next generation of thinkers. In 2018, Laura Esposito, a queer arachnologist, co-founded 500 Queer Scientists with the aim of increasing queer visibility in science and building queer community in STEM. So far, the group has collected over 1,900 inspiring profiles and stories of LBGTQ2IA+ scientists. Positive representation of LGBTQ2IA+ people in science and academia is one of the best ways to promote inclusion and provide role models for the next generation of researchers.
Opportunities to ally with LGBTQ2IA+ friends and colleagues are everywhere. If in doubt, reach out and ask what support would be appreciated.
For more information about this article or concrete measures to strengthen inclusion and equity in your lab or research program, please contact Joanne Garcia-Moores, jmoores@uoguelph.ca.
Links & Additional Resources:
500 Queer Scientists Visibility Campaign : 500 Queer Scientists
LGBTQ+ STEM – Improving LGBTQ+ visibility in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics
Seven 2SLGBTQIA+ Scientists from Canada — Royal Canadian Institute for Science
