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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
  • +8
  • Elena Sparrow,
  • Mimi Lesniak,
  • Josephine-Mary Sam,
  • Uma Bhatt,
  • Donna Hauser,
  • Michael DeLue,
  • Christina Buffington,
  • Tracie Curry,
  • Adelheid Herrmann,
  • Cory Whiteley,
  • Margaret Rudolf
Elena Sparrow
University of Alaska Fairbanks

Corresponding Author:ebsparrow@alaska.edu

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Mimi Lesniak
University of Alaska Fairbanks
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Josephine-Mary Sam
University of Alaska Fairbanks
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Uma Bhatt
University of Alaska Fairbanks
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Donna Hauser
International Arctic Research Center
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Michael DeLue
International Arctic Research Center
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Christina Buffington
University of Alaska Fairbanks
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Tracie Curry
Northern Social Environmental Research
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Adelheid Herrmann
International Arctic Research Center
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Cory Whiteley
University of Alaska Fairbanks
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Margaret Rudolf
University of Alaska Fairbanks
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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.