On September 4, CSBS hosted the Illinois Diversity and Equity Science (IDES) Networking Lunch, offering faculty and researchers a chance to reconnect at the start of the semester. Attendees discussed how science can be used to identify the causes of inequities and test interventions to reduce inequities. There was also discussion of methodological issues in the field. The social and behavioral sciences are uniquely positioned to promote diversity and equity. Inequities occur at multiple levels –from individuals, families, and communities to institutions and social and economic structures –which often interact in complex ways. IDES is committed to creating a network with multiple disciplinary perspectives and expertise. The hope is to promote a diverse set of research tools to untangle diversity and equity dynamics, ultimately creating pathways toward a more just world.
Discussion at the lunch reflected this spirit of collaboration and community. There was recognition that advancing diversity and equity science requires strong networks of faculty and institutional support. The lunch highlighted how building connections across disciplines fuels new ideas, fosters new partnerships, and strengthens mentoring for the next generation of researchers.
Stay tuned for updates on support and networking opportunities later this year. Learn more about the IDES and join the listserv.