Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Statement

I believe that all people should have access and resources to engage with nature and science. This means not only providing access, but ensuring that this access is equitable and accounts for the historic and current exclusion of marginalized groups and making this access as safe as possible.

Biology, including ecology, has a long history of not only excluding but also exploiting and actively harming marginalized communities. I am committed to educating myself on how the history of these disciplines continues to affect these communities, implementing anti-racist and inclusive practices into my teaching and outreach, and listening to and engaging with local communities where appropriate.

While DEI statements are important, writing one means nothing without implementing its goals. Here are a few examples of how I implement these goals into my work.

• Personal research into the role of colonialism in ecology

• Personal research into the role of prominent biologists in the eugenics movement

• Reading and listening to publicly shared knowledge from indigenous communities in areas where I work

• Sharing various perspectives on complex issues, especially when my work involves a public-facing component

• Advocating for policies and practices based in environmental justice, and integrating environmental justice perspectives into my work where applicable

• Volunteering with and supporting groups that prioritize environmental justice in their work

My teaching statement includes more information on how I implement DEI practices in a classroom or teaching environment.

This statement is still in progress, but I wanted to publish what I have at this time.