SFB on Racial Justice

June 4, 2020

The Society For Biomaterials as an organization is devastated and heartbroken by the tragic killing of George Floyd, Ahmaud Arbery and Breonna Taylor, some of the latest victims of a painfully long history of dehumanizing, racist acts plaguing the United States.

In these harrowing times, please know that the Society stands in solidarity with the Black community most grievously affected by these events.

Now, more than ever, the Society for Biomaterials remains committed to supporting an equitable and inclusive community in which racist acts of violence, hate, and intolerance are actively combatted. We recognize that racism exists not only as outward displays of hate but also runs implicitly deep within the fabric of our society. As a scientific society that embraces and celebrates diversity, we must stand together to demand justice and be accountable for dismantling institutionalized racism.

Our objective now is to put words to action – simply re-stating and repeating our current commitment is not enough. We recognize that we need to improve our strategy to actively combat racism and serve as a safe space for our students, colleagues, and communities. Our current Diversity Task Force is charged with resolving disparities within our own Society. Our plan of action includes, but is not limited to, a climate survey and evaluation of our policies to promote inclusivity and ensure diverse representation. We will continue to improve our diversity, equity, and inclusion practices that create opportunities and provide an inclusive environment for all members of our community

In an effort to gather and support each other, we encourage all members to check in on each other virtually. Take this opportunity to listen, learn from one another, and use your voice to advocate for effective change in our field and in our communities.

Horst von Recum, PhD            Shelly Sakiyama Elbert, PhD

President                                  President-Elect

Resources on racial bias, how to support, inclusive mentoring

https://www.nap.edu/resource/25568/McGee%20-%20STEMM%20Mentoring%20Identity.pdf  

https://500womenscientists.org/updates/2020/6/1/take-action

https://www.vox.com/2015/4/30/8520305/systemic-racism-video

https://docs.google.com/document/d/17ctVFeXJwJwtOa7ogZ0oEiVhpH7zQQwoRdIJ6XvEM_Y/edit

https://www.whiteaccomplices.org/

https://www.brown.edu/sheridan/teaching-learning-resources/inclusive-teaching/inclusive-mentoring

https://www.nap.edu/catalog/25568/the-science-of-effective-mentorship-in-stemm    

https://docs.google.com/document/d/1H-Vxs6jEUByXylMS2BjGH1kQ7mEuZnHpPSs1Bpaqmw0/mobilebasic

https://msw.usc.edu/mswusc-blog/diversity-workshop-guide-to-discussing-identity-power-and-privilege/