In the physics community, there is often little or no discussion on the impact of social interactions on the success of a student’s academic life or future research career. The ability to communicate ideas effectively depends not only on one’s knowledge, but also on how two or more people interact. Often, groups of people miss out on opportunities because of failed communication arising from implicit bias or outright discrimination.
As with anything, one can excel at a task through study and practice. We propose to use the Diversi-Tea as an opportunity to be mindful, reflect and to practice positive social interaction that is inclusive and will benefit all participants.
1. Acknowledgement of the ‘other’ as human
2. Affirming the dignity of the ‘other’ in interpersonal interactions and discourse
3. Using self-reflection to thwart impulsive responses based on narrow minded belief systems
4. Embracing a set of ethical codes (equity, responsibility, compassion, justice) as central to participation in the group
5. Social contract to follow a specific set of methods (scientific and democratic) for decision making. To embrace the scientific method while being mindful of social interactions
At Diversi-Tea, we host regular talks by members of our faculty as well as students on topics related to expanding STEM opportunities to everyone - especially people coming from historically-underrepresented groups - and what ways we can act to build a supportive, safe community. We also have an ever-growing set of posters that covers a vast variety of similar topics - for instance highlighting the achievements from people you might not often hear about in STEM. Come to JROWL 1C13 to learn more!
Latest: World Autism Awareness Day
by Annie Campbell and Dr. Peter Persans
April 2nd, 2025
Past presentations at Diversi-Tea
International Women's Day (Spring 2025)
International Day of Women & Girls in Science (Spring 2025) by Annie Campbell
Raising Awareness of Sam Nordquist (Spring 2025)
Bisexuality in Physics and Astronomy (Fall 2023)
Diwali (Fall 2023)
Martin Luther King Jr. Day (Spring 2025)
Black History Month (Spring 2025)
Black History Month (Spring 2024)
Martin Luther King Jr. Day (Spring 2024)