[bioundgrd] IMPORTANT; HOLD: Wednesday June 10

[Alan D Grossman]

Dear All,

I’m writing to let everyone know that there will be a #ShutDownSTEM program for the Biology Department on Wednesday June 10. I am fully supportive and endorse this program. It is the beginning of open and transparent conversations about racial bias, diversity, and inclusion throughout the department. I encourage everyone to participate. Please reschedule whatever you can to allow for your participation in this day-long program and allow your staff as much time as possible to participate.

Some information about #ShutDownSTEM:

From the website (https://www.shutdownstem.com/):  "#ShutDownSTEM is an initiative from a multi-identity, intersectional coalition of STEM professionals and academics taking action for Black lives.”   "No matter where you physically live, you impact and are impacted by this moment in history. This is not exclusive to the United States. We must all work against anti-Black racism.”  They also note that: "#ShutDownSTEM is aimed at the broad research community who is not directly participating in ending the global pandemic, COVID-19. If your daily activities are directly helping us end this global crisis, we send our sincerest gratitude."

There will be an email later today or this evening with more information, including an all-day schedule for the program.

Thank you in advance for your participation in these important and necessary conversations.

Alan



Alan D. Grossman
Professor and Head
Department of Biology
Building 68-530
M.I.T.
Cambridge, MA   02139

(617) 253-1515
adg at mit.edu<mailto:adg at mit.edu>





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