As an international collective, the Science Communication Journal Club (ScicommJC) is committed to the fight for justice and we stand with the Black community in the U.S. and internationally. We condemn all forms of hate, violence, and injustice. The loss of Black lives from police brutality and radical violence–George Floyd, Ahmaud Arbery, Breonna Taylor, and too many more–underscore the problem of systemic racism as a global sickness, compounded by unequal access to fundamental needs, which has been amplified by the current COVID-19 pandemic. It is up to us to take meaningful, sustained action to dismantle white supremacy and oppression.
At the Science Communication Journal Club, we stand with and support BIPoC (Black, Indigenous, People of Color). We recognize that the institution of science is intertwined with racism. While science has led to discoveries that promote healing and progress, it has also been used to justify white supremacy and inflict harm. Despite one of the aims of science to be “unbiased,” the institution of science continues to overlook, exclude, impede, and marginalize diverse voices. The science community, academic institutions, and society as a whole needs to do better. We pledge to lead by example and work to make meaningful anti-racist and systemic change to truly advance justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion.
We understand that this statement means nothing if it is not backed up by real, tangible action. Specific actions we will take include (but are not limited to):
- Continuing to ask the difficult questions and engage in thoughtful, honest discussions about science, society, and politics through our platform and as individuals.
- Promoting meaningful inclusion and diversity in our respective organizations and advocating for public policy that recognizes and addresses racial inequities.
- Pushing the boundaries of mainstream discussions in science and science communication.
- Being honest about what we do not know, educating ourselves, and being open to constructive feedback to help us learn to be better allies and advocates.
- Continuing to learn, speak up, and take action. This is about peoples’ lives, not a trending hashtag.
The Science Communication Journal Club joins so many others in standing side-by-side with BlPoC community members across the globe fighting for their lives, dignity, and pursuit of happiness. We sincerely hope you will do the same. If you’re not sure how to get started, check out this Anti-Racist Resource Guide (courtesy of Victoria Alexander @victoriaalxndr).
#BlackLivesMatter
In solidarity,
Sherry, Mariya, Nevena, and Heather