The Physics Inclusion, Diversity, and Equity Alliance (Physics IDEA) was formed in August 2020 and established its mission to foster a safe, inclusive, diverse, equitable, and accessible atmosphere for everyone, especially those from marginalized groups, that participate in the department’s educational and research activities.
The faculty coordinators appointed by the Physics Chair for the 2022-2023 academic year include: Kathryn McGill (chair), Laura Blecha, Hai-Ping Cheng, Katia Matcheva, Mark Meisel, Shawn Weatherford, and BingKan Xue.
We invite everyone having an affiliation with the department (students, postdocs, staff, faculty members) to participate and/or serve as leaders in the Alliance. Please complete the form linked beneath the Physics IDEA logo on this page to indicate your interest in being involved.
We are committed to monitoring the departmental climate, raising awareness and appreciation of differences, and providing a platform where these issues are addressed. As part of this effort, we have provided a link to various resources under the “Join the Alliance!” button on the right-hand side of this page. We seek to build a culture where all persons recognize the benefit of their diverse background as essential to the identity of the department and its success.
Why Physics IDEA?
We recognize that not all individuals are afforded equal access to resources, support, and opportunities. We acknowledge the existence of systemic barriers to access are faced by marginalized groups. Such patterns perpetuate harmful inequity. The exclusion of diverse voices is a hindrance to scientific progress. IDEA was established in recognition that combatting these challenges requires ongoing effort by all members of the community, and we commit to facilitating this process in the Department of Physics.
Anti-Racism Statement, May 20, 2021We express our deep disturbance at the multiple acts of violence and hate in our country, including the rise in hate crimes against Asians across the US and the continual brutalization and killing of Black people by law enforcement. We witnessed with relief the accountability brought to George Floyd’s murderer, but we affirm our strong belief that true justice cannot be achieved while systemic racism continues to empower individuals and institutions to commit acts of violence against marginalized people. It is our strong belief that racist and discriminatory treatment toward anyone in the community should be brought to light, acknowledged, and acted upon, as initial steps to root out systemic racism in our society. Physics IDEA stands in solidarity and allyship with all oppressed people, and we are committed to working toward equity and justice as representatives of the entire UF Physics community. We strive to provide a safe and a brave space via Physics IDEA for any UF Physics community member (defined broadly). You are encouraged to explore our website to learn more about Physics IDEA and to join our alliance. You are also encouraged to share ideas and concerns with us at idea@phys.ufl.edu. |
