SAFS Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Blog

December 8, 2020

Screening of “Picture a Scientist” and discussion at SAFS

The SAFS Equity & Inclusion committee recently held a private screening of Picture a Scientist and over 60 people registered to view the documentary.

 

Synopsis of film

PICTURE A SCIENTIST chronicles the groundswell of researchers who are writing a new chapter for women scientists. Biologist Nancy Hopkins, chemist Raychelle Burks, and geologist Jane Willenbring lead viewers on a journey deep into their own experiences in the sciences, ranging from brutal harassment to years of subtle slights. Along the way, from cramped laboratories to spectacular field stations, we encounter scientific luminaries – including social scientists, neuroscientists, and psychologists – who provide new perspectives on how to make science itself more diverse, equitable, and open to all. PICTURE A SCIENTIST was an official selection of the 2020 Tribeca Film Festival, postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Content Warning: Some scenes from the movie feature firsthand stories of explicit and brutal harassment, implicit gender and racial bias, and entrenched institutional discrimination. 

 

Following the 3-day viewing window of the documentary, a discussion facilitated by Amy Fox was held at SAFS. This film documents experiences that many of us have had in the workplace. An outline of some ground rules* helped to center the topics of discussion. The discussion included some thoughts about the role of bystanders, the role of administration, the role of peer groups and what we collectively as a community can do to move toward a less sexist work environment. People were also welcome to share their thoughts and feelings around the film.

 

Some links were shared to the group prior to the discussion, and shared again here, in case anyone needs additional support:

 

In addition to the documentary, a recent paper, “Use science to stop sexual harassment in higher education“, by Clancy et al. published in PNAS, was also shared to help process thoughts on the film.

 

* Ground rules of discussion:

  • This will not be a space to debate whether or not sexism exists in SAFS.
  • Our primary commitment is to listen and learn from each other. We will listen to each other and not talk at each other. We acknowledge differences amongst us in backgrounds, skills, interests, experiences and values. We realize that it is these very differences that will increase our awareness and understanding through this process. Seek to understand before needing to be understood.
  • We will not demean, devalue, or ‘put down’ people for their experiences, lack of experiences or difference in interpretation of those experiences.
  • We will trust that people are always doing the best they can. Support others in their efforts to discuss challenging topics. Be compassionate. Be mindful of our impact on others and not only our intent.
  • Challenge the idea and not the person.
  • Speak your discomfort.
  • Step up, step back. Be mindful of taking up much more space than others. On the same note, empower yourself to speak up when others are dominating the conversation.
  • Maintain a respectful atmosphere.