A call to action: Striving for racial justice in academic biology

But is it really “just” science? Engaging critical race theory to unpack racial oppression with implications for Black student science engagement

Terrell Morton, PhD, University of Missouri

Disseminated through the culture of science (i.e., norms, values, beliefs, and practices), is the underlying message that there is but one “universal truth” regarding what is or what counts as scientific knowledge, research, and general practice. This culture and subsequent message have implications for who is recognized as being a scientist, or a validated member of the scientific community, and the process by which one gains such recognition. In noting the distinct, racialized experiences of Black students in science, this seminar introduces Critical Race Theory as a framework for attending to the prevalence, permeance, and impact of structural racism embedded within and manifesting through the culture of science, while also detailing the implications of structural racism in and through science on Black student science engagement.

All talks will be posted online afterwards at: saberbio.wildapricot.org/Diversity_Inclusion