Inclusive Astronomy

What is Inclusive Astronomy? 

Inclusive Astronomy is a discussion group that examines the cultural state of astronomy and STEM fields in general. We meet weekly to discuss how to make our field and our department a more inclusive and welcoming environment for everyone, including traditionally underrepresented and marginalized groups.

Examples of topics we discuss include diversity, inclusion, equity, intersectionality, and social issues. We promote the education of our department on these topics by providing training opportunities and giving annual presentations about our work.

Inclusive astronomy currently meets weekly via a hybrid format. 

 

 

Example Projects IA has worked on: 

  • Reading and discussing the various documents that pertain to inclusive practices in astronomy (see below).
  • Developing “Story Packages”, informational resources highlighting astronomers that embody the idea that learning takes hard work and persistence, and that everyone can do astronomy. These resources are tied to the typical astronomical objects viewed at outreach, Open House, or Campus Observatory events, and will be used at these events and in our Astronomy courses.
  • Improving accessibility for our department’s Campus Observatory.
  • Developing a Climate Survey to send to current and former members of our department, to assess the department’s environment and identify areas that need the most attention.

Discussion Documents:

Every year, we choose one document to focus our discussions around and develop projects inspired by what we read.

External Resources and NMSU Resources:

Diversity Programs:

LGBT+ Programs
Military and Veterns Programs
Black Programs
Chicano Programs
American Indian Program
Asian and Pacific Islander Programs (In development)

Equity on Campus:
Astro Department Handbook - Ethics Chapter
Office of Institutional Equity
Disability Access Services
International Students and Scholar Services
TRIO Student Support Services
NMSU Passport Services
Information for Exchange Students
Childcare on Campus
List of gender neutral restrooms on campus

Healthcare:
Aggie Health and Wellness Center - (575)-646-1512
Crimson Cab
Aggie Cupboard
New Mexico Health Insurance Marketplace
National Suicide Prevention Hotline - Dial 988 or (800) 273-8255
Dona Ana Crisis Triage Center (mental health services) - (575) 449-8159

Help with Schoolwork (Undergraduate):
Tutoring
Student Success Center

External Organizations and Confrences:
Confrence for Undergraduate Women in Physics
Inclusive Graduate Education Network
The New Mexico Alliance for Minoirty Participation
SACNAS