Developing and Implementing a Culture of Diversity, Equity, and
Inclusion at an International Research Center in an Arctic University to
Build Trusting, Caring and Professional Relationships Across
International Research Communities
Abstract
The stated mission of the International Arctic Research Center (IARC) at
the University of Alaska Fairbanks (UAF) is ”to foster Arctic research
to help the nation and the world understand, prepare for, and adapt to
the pan-Arctic impacts of climate change.” IARC’s work and
collaborations are everywhere in the Arctic and beyond. One of IARC’s
core values is actively cultivating an environment of diversity and
inclusion where all individuals and groups feel welcomed and are heard.
Through the work of the IARC Diversity and Inclusion Working Group, we
affirm that our different experiences, expertise, and ways of knowing
are our strength, fostering diverse thoughts and ideas. Collaborative
science and administrative support by people from diverse backgrounds
and knowledge systems helps IARC build a professional culture of
inclusion, listening, caring and respect. We face challenges in DEI work
and are actively addressing them. For example, in addressing the
challenge of time constraints by the all-volunteer membership, a DEI
coordinator position to spearhead our efforts is being created and
funding sought. We highlight efforts from the IARC Diversity and
Inclusivity Working Group to cultivate a culture of inclusion, equity
and access: 1) collaboratively developing an institutional diversity and
inclusivity statement and land acknowledgement statement, 2) creating
safe spaces for conversation and action through open biweekly working
group meetings and discussions, 3) elevating awareness through relevant
workshops, trainings and discussions, 4) collectively incorporating
diversity and inclusion values into the IARC strategic plan, 5) making
presentations and documents accessible, and 6) actively collaborating on
inclusion efforts within UAF, Alaska and beyond. We welcome new members
with their ideas and perspectives to the working group. At IARC, we
recognize that inclusion is an ongoing process that has to be woven into
all that we do in research, education and outreach.