Communications of the ACM
Media Lab Conference Addresses Gender Bias, Diversity, and Inclusion in STEM
At last week's No Permission, No Apology conference at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology's Media Lab, U.S. Chief Technology Officer Megan Smith delivered a keynote address calling for a push to eliminate implicit gender bias and create greater div
Credit: Mim Adkins
At last week's No Permission, No Apology conference at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology's (MIT) Media Lab, MIT alumna and U.S. Chief Technology Officer Megan Smith delivered a keynote address calling for a push against implicit gender bias and for more diversity and racial equity in the science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) disciplines.
"The essence of the conference is community building," said the Media Lab's Monica Orta. "It isn't enough to create access to a space; we also have to make that space one in which all members can thrive."
Orta stressed how men can help diversify spaces by looking beyond inculcated gender stereotypes. "Being cognizant of how to pull others in and the ways in which we make a space more or less welcoming has a huge impact," she said.
Meanwhile, Wellesley College Associate Provost Robbin Chapman recommended the development of a "thrive mosaic," or a network of personal resources that evolves along the course of one's career. "You need mentors, advocates, connectors, and accountability partners who are familiar with your work and help you get it done," she said.
MindSpring Metro DC partner Denise Minor urged women to establish a clear presence that demonstrates value even in a male-dominated domain.
From MIT News
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