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Black in Geosciences Week 2020: A Global, Social Media Movement

Session: Inspiring a New Generation of Seismology Leaders

Type: Oral

Date: 4/21/2021

Presentation Time: 09:45 AM Pacific

Description: 

Black in Geoscience Week (September 6th-12th 2020) emerged following the rise in grassroot movements such as Black AF In STEM, Black In the Ivory and Black In X (e.g. Neuro, Chemistry) on Twitter. Geosciences is one of the least diverse STEM subjects: in the USA, only 6% of doctorate degrees in geoscience are awarded to students from underrepresented minorities, although they make up 31% of the population. In the UK, Black students represent 1.6% of Geology postgraduate researchers, while 3.8% of 18 – 24 year olds are Black. Increasing diversity in geoscience is important as underrepresented groups, particularly Black geoscientists, lack visibility, opportunity and community.

Taking action, an international, multidisciplinary committee of geoscientists, ranging from marine scientists to astronomers, designed, promoted, and led a week of virtual activities across Twitter, Instagram, YouTube and other social media platforms. Through panel discussions, viral Twitter threads and live academic talks, #BlackinGeoscienceWeek celebrated the richness and research breadth carried out by Black geoscientists globally, while also highlighting the need for more inclusivity and equality in geosciences. The week was a success, with over 6.1 million Twitter impressions and a 3.2% engagement rate with tweets. Several follow up initiatives, such as Black in Marine Science, have emanated from the week, allowing Black geoscientists to network with those in their research field. Future events will focus on more specific work required to improve diversity within geoscience, such as decolonisation work.

Presenting Author: Louisa O. Brotherson

Student Presenter: Yes

Authors