At the July meeting of the LGBTQ+ Affinity Group of HFES, Professor Ellen Bass of Drexel University delivered remarks on her grassroots activism for equality in academia, and how human factors researchers and practitioners can leverage their knowledge and experience to drive social progress. Specifically, Professor Bass recounted her journey, from limits to benefits to understanding state-level and legal impediments, from devising creative solutions to implementing concrete changes in the academic setting. Her talk was followed by a lively discussion with members of the Affinity Group. Here are the key takeaways from Professor Bass' presentation:
- Equity and inclusion are part of every activity
- No action is "too small"
- Allies are critical to any progress
- You may encounter unexpected allies
- Knowledge of the constraints is critical to any progress
- Forcing functions, such as regulations or policy changes, may be required
- You may need to use creativity and take unanticipated pathways
- It may take longer than expected to make an impact
- Impact may also be unanticipated!
To learn more, we invite you to read "Advancing Diversity, Inclusion, and Social Justice Through Human Systems Engineering" from CRC Press, a volume edited by Professors Roscoe, Chiou, and Wooldridge (who are all members of HFES and very active in the Society's diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts). Chapter 7 of this volume, contributed by Professor Bass, focuses on the LGBTQ+ fight for equality.
Meetings of the LGBTQ+ Affinity Group of HFES are open to all, and alternate between internal work to make the Society more welcoming, equitable, and inclusive, and social hours with guests and open conversations. Please join us every second Monday of the month. Our next meeting will be on August 10th, 2020. To participate, contact the co-chairs Julia Trippe and Sylvain Bruni.
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Sylvain Bruni
Principal Human Systems Engineer
Aptima
Johnson City, TN
6174170359
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