July 20, 2023
Sustainable ecosystems thrive on diversity. They are stronger, more resilient, more adaptable.
A society of people is no different. This fundamental understanding underpins the work of a scientific society at every level. Thus, the Entomological Society of America is deeply disappointed in recent court rulings and legislation that ignore the importance of diversity to American society. From the ending of affirmative action programs to the censoring of discourse on the very subject of diversity in some states, these regressive actions will make it harder for scientific societies like ESA to pursue their missions.
Fewer students from minoritized populations will be able to pursue college degrees in entomology, leaving our workforce less diverse. People of color earn Ph.D. degrees in entomology and other STEM professions in the U.S. at rates lower than their population size, and just 22 percent of ESA members in 2022 identified as non-White. Improving upon these dynamics is already a challenge in the face of multiple systemic barriers, and the end of affirmative action removes a foundational tool in this pursuit. Meanwhile, the stifling of important diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) efforts at universities may affect scientists’ freedom to associate with professional societies. Indeed, already some ESA members are retreating from full participation with the Society, fearing repercussions for simply engaging with the DEI efforts that they support. This will lead to increased inequities, as affected scientists miss out on the professional opportunities and knowledge sharing that come with scientific society membership.
ESA stands firm in its commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion. Our first strategic principle is the responsibility to develop all of our members, because our mission to advance insect science requires it. To grow entomology’s impact on critical global challenges, to develop the entomological workforce, to spread human understanding of insects’ role on our planet—these goals and many more all demand diversity in the knowledge, experiences, and backgrounds of the community of people who pursue them.
We pledge to continue this ongoing work, and we ask our members to do the same however they can—in their own communities and institutions or through their engagement with ESA. Together, we will make our science stronger, more resilient, more adaptable.
More:
- Learn more about Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at ESA.
- Access Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion resources at the American Association for the Advancement of Science.
- If you are an ESA member with concerns about your freedom to engage with ESA, contact us at esa@entsoc.org or (301) 731-4535.