Diversity and inclusion (D&I)

We encourage numerous approaches to diversity and inclusion in microbiology and related disciplines, and undertakes inclusive practices in support of this.

At AMI we know that microbiology is diverse. We value diversity and inclusion because we believe all talented microbiologists, whoever they are, should be given full recognition and support, so that we may ensure that the application of microbiology serves the needs of all citizens.

Diversity and inclusion issues in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) are complex and there is unlikely to be a single effective approach to bring parity. AMI encourages numerous approaches to diversity and inclusion in microbiology and related disciplines, and undertakes inclusive practices in support of this. To that end, AMI commits to:

  • Ensure diversity and inclusion within our staff, trustees and committees by creating equality of opportunity and promoting good practices that support everyone.
  • Draw from the widest possible pool of talent when inviting speakers and chairs for our scientific meetings.
  • Support our members through the provision of grants, monitoring the accessibility of our meeting venues, and through the work of our Early Career Scientist Committee.
  • Work with the Royal Society of Biology and our partners in the learned society sector to support and promote schemes for diversity and inclusion.
Equity vs Equality 

Equity and equality are two approaches used to try to create fairness. Equality means each individual or group of people is given the same resources or opportunities. While the term equity may sound similar, equity recognises that each person has different circumstances and allocates the exact resources and opportunities needed to reach an equal outcome.

In the illustration below, three individuals have unequal access to a system — in this case, the fence which provides a barrier to the view. With equal support from evenly distributed tools, their access to the view still remains unequal. However, the equitable solution allocates the exact resources that each person needs to access the view, leading to positive outcomes for all individuals. 

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The route to achieving equity will not be accomplished through treating everyone equally. It will be achieved by treating everyone justly according to their circumstances.

Paula Dressel

Race Matters Institute

 

D & I policy statements and consultation responses

Equality, diversity & inclusion statements and consultations