APECS Initiatives for Fostering Inclusive Polar Policies

Abstract:

Polar science has a disparaging history of exclusivity, racism, and harassment. As a result, qualified early career scientists have turned away from polar science in search of safer, more inclusive spaces. To address some of these issues and foster a more inclusive culture, the Association of Polar Early Career Scientists (APECS) project group on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion have launched a number of initiatives for our members and the broader polar science community. These initiatives have included webinars about harassment and implicit bias, facilitating a mentoring program for marginalized researchers, the development of a code of conduct and bill of rights for polar fieldwork, and a growing effort to promote BIPOC researchers and address systemic racism within our own organization and affiliated groups. This is ongoing work designed to devote APECS resources to broadcast resources for early career researchers and promote diversity and inclusion within our field. These initiative will hopefully be a launching point for continued work making polar science a safer and more accepting community.