CSBS is pleased to introduce the Illinois Diversity & Equity Science (IDES) interdisciplinary network which will bring together Illinois researchers examining and addressing the roots of inequality in contemporary society by leveraging the unique strengths of the social and behavioral sciences. The roots of inequality occur at all levels of society—for example, institutional structures, social and economic groups and classes, and families and individuals—and these often interact, creating complex webs that can only be untangled by the integration of diverse disciplinary perspectives.
IDES will foster discussion and collaboration as well as build mentoring relationships among Illinois diversity and equity science researchers from multiple disciplines on our campus; it will also provide students access to mentors and educational experiences in diversity and equity science. IDES will develop long-term strategies for growth, including interdisciplinary research projects and centers as well as community engagement opportunities. Together, these efforts will elevate diversity and equity science on our campus, as well as nationally.
CSBS is grateful to Prof. Travis Dixon (Communication), Associate Prof. Avital Livny (Political Science), and Prof. Eleanor Seaton (Psychology) for their service as members of the IDES Leadership Committee. They have planned two events for the fall semester around diversity and equity science:
- A networking lunch on September 18th will provide an opportunity for faculty from across campus conducting diversity and equity science to get to know one another and their research.
- A panel discussion on race, gender, and identity in the 2024 American election on October 16th to highlight social and behavioral science insights into this topic.