Author: Daniel Zucker
Affiliation: Macquarie University
Country: Australia
Co-Author(s): IDEA Steering Committee
Affiliation: Astronomical Society of Australia
Country: Australia
Title: The Pleiades Awards: Driving Inclusion, Diversity and Equity in Astronomy and Beyond
The Inclusion, Diversity and Equity in Astronomy (IDEA) Chapter[1] of the Astronomical Society of Australia runs the Pleiades Awards[2], which recognise organisations that are taking active steps to create an inclusive, welcoming and supportive environment for staff and students. The IDEA Chapter was originally launched as the Chapter for Women in Astronomy in 2009, and the Pleiades – inspired by the UK Athena Swan program[3] – were initially focused on actions to advance the careers of women. With the expansion of the chapter’s remit in 2016, the Pleiades Award criteria similarly expanded to cover broader issues of gender and sexual identity, cultural background, disability, age, family/carer responsibilities, political affiliation and religious belief. Almost all astronomy departments and research centres in Australia apply for these biennial awards, which are given at Bronze, Silver and Gold levels to reflect the overall achievements of the applying organisation. Based on the applications submitted, it is clear that the Pleiades Award scheme is advancing the goals of inclusion, diversity and equity not only in astronomy, but in a wider academic environment in Australia.
References:
[1]: https://asa-idea.org/
[2]: https://asa-idea.org/the-pleiades-awards/
[3]: https://www.ecu.ac.uk/equality-charters/athena-swan/