Diversity equity and inclusion

The members of the Department of Entomology inherently understand that diversity is a keystone organizing concept in our profession. From the insects we study, to the systems we research, to the students we mentor, to the places we come from, to the cultures we practice, we are enriched by our manifold diversity. But, acknowledging and valuing diversity is only the first step towards equity and justice in our profession.

In our commitment to the principles of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI), we affirm that:

  1. Our people should feel safe to express their identity, and that they will be respected for this.
  2. Our department must make a concerted effort to bring in diverse student voices, enrich their experience, and to make their success a priority by equipping them with appropriate resources.
  3. Our faculty, staff, and students are committed to listening and to do the hard work that reconciliation calls us to do.
  4. A changing climate requires responsive leadership that is ready to address the needs of our people.

Together as faculty, staff, and students, we agree to follow the proceeding compact as best as we are able: we will value diversity, equity, inclusion, and dignity. We stand together against racism, misogyny, ableism, homophobia and transphobia, xenophobia, religious discrimination, and all other -isms that express hate and intolerance. We respect and seek out inclusion of differences, realizing we can learn from each other without treating each other as tokens. We insist on a culture of respect, and recognize that words and actions matter. The absence of action and words also matter. We agree to create a welcoming culture, and to safeguard equity, inclusion and dignity by refusing to remain silent in the face of injustice.