Embracing diversity and inclusion: Pride in eye and vision science
June is Pride Month — a time when many countries celebrate and honor the LGBTQ+ community. It originated in 1970 to commemorate the Stonewall Uprising in Manhattan, New York, which was a significant event in the Gay Liberation Movement.
ARVO commends the invaluable contributions of LGBTQ+ eye and vision scientists from all over the world. Additionally, ARVO acknowledges the importance of inclusivity in vision research and the broader field. As noted by the Graduate Women in Science (GWIS) Los Angeles Chapter, “Science is a universal language that transcends borders, cultures, and identities. It thrives on diversity, inclusivity, and equality.”
While progress has been made, there is still a need for further advancement to ensure that individuals can live openly and proudly. Below we share some tips and resources on how to create an inclusive and supportive environment in your organization:
- Episode 391: LGBTQ+ spectrum in ophthalmology and retina, Association with burnout and increasing awareness/diversity
- Three retinal professionals who self-identify on the LGBTQ+ spectrum share their experiences and discuss how to increase diversity and awareness within medicine.
- Equidade BR
- An assessment designed to increase LGBTQIA+ inclusion in the workplace in Brazil.
- Gender pronouns & their use in workplace communications
- The NIH Sexual and Gender Minority Research Office and the Office of Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion's overview of gender pronouns, legal rights protecting sexual and gender minority (SGM) employees and other useful information to help facilitate inclusive and welcoming workplace environments.
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- The Human Rights Campaign's (HRC) list of global resources for supporting LGBTQ+ people and advocates.
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How to deliver a safer research culture for LGBTQIA+ researchers
- LGBTQIA+ researchers share how colleagues and collaborators can support them in lab and fieldwork settings.
- Measuring sex, gender identity, and sexual orientation
- The National Academies of Sciences, Engineering and Medicine's consensus study report.
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National LGBTQIA+ Health Education Center
- A listing of programs, resources, and more to health care organizations.
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Tips for communicating with and for LGBTQI+ communities
- NIH's suggestions for communicating for, about or with LGBTQI+ communities.
Here are some safe space communities available for LGBTQ+ researchers: