Mission and Anti-Racism Statement

Exp_{@BC}(ML) is a community-built, community-maintained intellectual playspace. It also serves as a sanctuary from the afflictions of racism, sexism, elitism, and all other divisive and harmful ‘isms that have unfortunately been woven into the fabric of the profession of mathematics. We  promote and uplift diversity here. We owe no allegiance to forces which oppose diversity.  All who enter Exp_{@BC}(ML) will be expected to maintain our high standards of mutual support and respect, and those who do not will be asked to leave. Our entire community accepts responsibility for maintaining the safety of this space and our shared explorations.

Practically, we translate as follows. Mathematics is a creative process.  People flourish when genuinely welcomed to bring their whole selves into mathematical spaces. Diversity, accordingly, may not be found to exist anywhere within Exp_{@BC}(ML) as something to market, or a token to barter. Nor is diversity something which exists separate from excellence (cf.  Francis Su’s [MAA Presidential Farewell Address], which articulates this point well). 

An important mission of this lab is to re-imagine what math is: what it can be, and who it is for. (Spoiler alert: math is for everyone).  All people have the right to participate in the creation of mathematics. More importantly, the world deserves the kind of mathematics that can only exist when all are participating in its creation. It follows that the modern social implications of how we train future generations of mathematicians are glaringly loud. It is precisely for these reasons that our sense of purpose is of primary importance.  

We close by noting that neither an anti-racism statement nor a [Racial Justice Commission] is an antidote for racism or Anti-Blackness. We stand in solidarity with those working for racial and social justice.  We welcome all into this space. We trust that this act and this power will propagate.