An Astronomical Inclusion Revolution

It is known that disparities exist in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM), and more specifically astronomy and astrophysics disciplines, by gender, race, socioeconomic status, sexuality, and other dimensions of identity (and the many intersections thereof). This book responds to the critical need for astronomers to understand, operationalize, and assess the efficacy of DEI efforts on research collaboration. Within these three areas, it explores the historical context, present landscape, and best inclusion strategies that all astronomers should know while conducting science. The topics within implementation and assessment provided in this book are intended to benefit readers with the knowledge needed to remedy issues of marginalization and harassment in astronomy, and thereby increase the capacity for scientific exploration in the field.

Key Features

• Includes real-life case studies of DEI efforts with a critique of successes and shortfalls.
• Provides actionable strategies for institutions and community groups to propose, implement, and assess the efficacy of DEI policies and practices.
• Gives historical and social context on the forces that have created and perpetuated present disparities and a review of participation and outcomes in the astronomy landscape.
• Provides information to demystify decision-making structures in science, including how priorities, funding, and long-range plans are determined, and ways institutions can require greater accountability in research inclusion.