How Do We Define Progress? Assessing Equitable Inclusion in the Earth and Space Sciences Workforce

Abstract:

The current historical moment has revealed the deep-seated disparities in a variety of sectors in the United States and challenged us to reevaluate our perceptions of racial progress. The atrocities of racialized treatment by law enforcement, healthcare access, voting rights, and financial systems have been laid bare in the public forum and an unprecedented National response in support of anti-racism appears to be afoot. While receiving somewhat less attention, the inequities and racism (both institutional and structural) present in the STEM workforce and, in particular, in the Earth and Space Sciences have resulted in the persistence of a largely monoculture demographic with respect to racialized groups even while gender and other forms of diversity have improved.

Diversity programs in the Earth and Space Sciences began in earnest nearly thirty years ago but the levels and duration of federal support as well as the coordination across the various agencies has been uneven. In the past two decades, several science mission agencies have renewed efforts with particular focus on the Earth and Space Sciences. These efforts have led to significant increases in degree-holders in relevant STEM disciplines and across all levels but these same efforts have had far less impact on the workforce. Perhaps, the greatest resistance to change has been in the academic sector, where role models and mentors from underrepresented racialized groups (specifically Black/African Descendants of Slaves, Indigenous, and Latinx/Chicano) represent less than 2% of the total tenure track positions at the top US programs. Moreover, the number of programs and allies committed to improving the plight of these underrepresented racialized groups – as evidenced by their diversity and inclusion strategic plans - remains in short supply.

This presentation will redefine progress by highlighting the significant advancements over the past thirty years and also identifying and reframing those areas where the persistent challenges, gatekeepers, and resistance remain.