Toward Intentional Diversity, Equity, and Respect in Chemistry Research and Practice

Abstract

Uncovering systemic racism and ensuring the equitable inclusion and respect of all individuals are at the core of the current public outcries. This editorial is a call to action for the chemistry community to adopt practices and research scholarship that respond to the needs of diversity, equity, inclusion, and respect.

Intentional mentoring should increase inclusivity in ecology

“…He discussed feeling hopeful about persisting in ecology because workshop conversations emphasized valuing people with diverse identities and working to recruit and retain people whose worldviews can broaden research perspectives in ecology (Figure 2). Thus, our findings highlight the role mentoring can play in promoting inclusivity in academia, especially for those who have intersectional identities (Chemers et al, 2011;Gardner et al, 2015;Li et al, 2018;MacPhee et al, 2013;O'Brien et al, 2020;Wilson-Kennedy et al, 2020). Research shows that the academic natural science pipeline can be notably less "leaky" with respect to students who feel marginalized when they are provided with intentional mentoring (Ahern-Dodson et al, 2020;Carpi et al, 2017).…”

Impact Assessment of an Affirmative Action to Promote Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Respect in Brazilian Chemistry during the COVID-19 Pandemic

“…18 However small the percentage contribution of these professionals to Brazilian chemistry is, they exist and have their own fascinating and diversified professional trajectories, which must be considered with an extreme degree of priority to avoid masking or a false sense of whitening of this science, providing a strengthening in racial struggles that preach a more inclusive, diversified, equitable, and respectful area of chemistry concerning underrepresented minorities. 25 …”

Organic Chemistry: A Retrosynthetic Approach to a Diverse Field

“…Numerous studies have documented the disparities that exist in salary, recognition, and awards between men and women; 2 − 7 this inequality is further exacerbated for those with intersectional underrepresented identities (e.g., women of color and Black transgender scientists). 8 , 9 Our field’s limited diversity has long been anecdotally attributed to lack of student interest, ability, or commitment without examining the historical biases within organic chemistry that dissuade potential scientists.…”