The goal is to raise awareness on issues related to diversity, equity and inclusion in Astronomy and Space Science, and discuss the impact they have on scientists at every stage of their career. These topics include (but are not limited to) race, gender, gender identity and sexual orientation, different abilities, age, socio-economic-background, nationality, ethnicity, neuro-diversity, religion and any intersections of them.

Building on the very successful and well attended special sessions in Athens 2016, Prague 2017, Liverpool 2018 and Lyon 2019 (the first "Inclusion Day"), "Inclusion Day" has become a yearly appointment aimed at making equity and diversity a regular and prominent topic at the EAS annual meetings.

Spaces for discussion of these issues are still very much needed in science, as recent events sadly continue to highlight. This session will provide an opportunity for the community to engage in respectful and open discussion and share their experiences, both positive and negative, in a safe and inclusive space where everyone is welcome. Throughout the session planning and execution we will adhere to the guidelines in the EAS ethics document.

Programme

The session talks will cover a variety of themes. First, we will examine the statistical data related to minority representation. We will discuss initiatives in place to improve work and career related conditions, and how bullying and harassment within professional spaces can be combated both on a national and international scale. We plan to have contributions by speakers both from within and outside of astronomy and academia, including experts in unconscious (or implicit) bias training and mental health awareness.

Issues we plan to address:


• Existing areas of inequity, and how to raise awareness of such issues;
• Lack of diversity and its impact on the effectiveness of institutions;
• Practical ways to address inequity and exclusion;
• Possible metrics to evaluate the success of diversity and inclusion initiatives in academia;
• Best practices for academic institutions and other employers for dealing with bullying and harassment and to maximise inclusion;
• European equity initiatives and their impact on working conditions;


Talks are encouraged from academics, students and experts outside of astronomy.

Invited speakers

Confirmed speakers
• Silvia Casu INAF
• Michaela Carriere RUG
• Francesca Primas ESO
• Cristina Oliveira STScI
• Elena Rossi Leiden University
• Alice Schut Leiden University
• Anna Voelker Ohio State
• Team from the "GalileoProject"

Scientific organisers

Contact

sara.lucatello @ inaf.it