I was at a famous research institute recently that hosts weekly workshops, and I was dismayed to learn that it has become harder for single parents (I am not one, but still) to attend.
I think inclusion measures have to go beyond quotas: They have to be aimed at making it easier for disadvantaged groups to participate. This can mean daycare options, it can mean that classes have to be shifted to accomodate existing schedules (such as when undergraduates from a more disadvantaged group have to work for a living in their mornings), or just that we have to make a crying baby in a lecture acceptable. It can mean adjusting teaching to include material towards disabled people, or just to make it socially acceptable to speak up.
Sidenote: Today I learned about the awesome Chevalier d’Éon, a French diplomat, spy, and soldier, and one of the first publicly acknowledged transgender persons.
Clik here to view.
