Ya’ll – STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) is something that I am passionate about as a STEM educator and student. This space needs to be more inclusive to diverse voices, unlike those often represented in textbooks.
I recently had the opportunity to listen to an authentic and critical conversation around identity, culture, immigration, and community. At it’s core, it’s also one on equity and allyship. During Actua’s National Conference, Jennifer Ladipo (Industrial Engineer, Book Author & National Program Manager, @thestemgirlco) and D’Andre Wilson (Engineer, Educator & Social Entrepreneur, @brainstemally, @dwilson15) went beyond talking about why we need to create inclusive spaces, and talked about how to actually do it.
Here are the key takeaways for folks working in these spaces (and yes, it can be applied to different equity-deserving groups):
1️⃣ Finding a community of people you can relate to is imp to create a sense of belonging in STEM. This can be challenging for Black folks – especially Black women – where the circle is small in this space. Shout out to @NSBE for being an org that helps to create that community.
2️⃣ Strong ties to culture can foster confidence. It is important for Black youth to have a strong sense of identity to be Black, and to be Canadian. [✨ TEACHERS: Culturally responsive & relevant pedagogy
3️⃣ The Black youth experience in STEM is heightened by Black representation & mentors. Make sure that Black youth can see multiple stories for themselves & multiple opportunities they can explore (in STEM – doctor, engineer, physicist, etc.).
4️⃣ Representation isn’t just important for the people being represented. [✨ TEACHERS: If you can see Black professionals in a range of disciplines, you can envision Black students in your class pursuing other opportunities. This is important for parents to see too.]
5️⃣ Building trust & reaching Black youth. Work with the community (seek out Black-led grassroots organizations). They don’t have all the resources they need to do the programs they want to do – working together can help get them there.
6️⃣ Support, collaboration & allyship is imp to prevent burnout for Black folks doing the work. You STILL NEED to have a representative in your organization that relates to that community & culture to make those connections (Please read up on tokenism though).
7️⃣ Show up & create a welcoming space. FOR EVERYONE. Safe, inclusive spaces will retain Black students and professionals. And honestly, all of these strategies can be applied to other groups to make STEM more relatable and diverse.
Diverse ideas and solutions come from a more diverse STEM field. The creators should be as diverse as the people they are creating for. I hope from this you are able to identify and reflect on areas in your practice that have room for growth.
With gratitude, Abbey.
ABBEY RAMDEO 