The events of the last few weeks have been a sobering reminder of what injustices still exist and how we all need to strive for greater equality, diversity and inclusion. The IMA stand in solidarity with our BAME members and colleagues, and we echo the messages from our friends at other societies and institutes.
IMA President, Dr Nira Chamberlain, reminds us that the reason the IMA was formed was to work toward equality* for all mathematicians. Today the IMA can be proud of its record and its work towards equality. We sponsor events such as the LGBTSTEMinar, attend and speak at events such as the UCL BAME role models day, and we have increased the diversity of maths teachers through our teacher training scholarships.
It is our honour to have Nira as our president; he is an exceptionally impactful mathematician, an inspirational speaker and a wonderful human being. That he is also the first Black President of a major European mathematical society, is a wonderful opportunity, but serendipitous, he was chosen because he was the best mathematician for the job! That sometimes our President and Councillors have felt the need to state this, reminds us how far there is to go before true equality is achieved.
As I write this, personally I am acutely aware that I do not know what it is like to experience racism, or be judged by the colour of my skin. But at 4 foot 6 inches tall, the height of an 11 year old, I do know what it’s like to be judged as less than you are on initial impressions. I am also aware that many mathematicians experience bullying at school simply because of their mathematical talents. Therefore I hope that we all believe in building an institute and a mathematical community that is open, equal, welcoming and inclusive for all.
The IMA is aware that we still have much work to be done. Our 2019 membership diversity survey is a good place to start, it illustrates that we need to make events more accessible and that we could attract higher proportions of diverse talent than we are.
We look forward to publishing our revamped diversity pages and have been delighted by the stories and interviews many of our members have shared with us. Above all, these pages will demonstrate the breadth of the mathematical experience, the passion and joy that mathematicians share, and the power of mathematics to benefit society.
Equality, diversity and inclusivity doesn’t just happen. It takes all of us in the mathematical community working together. Each of us can make change happen – be observant, avoid complacency and above all be kind.
Jenny Macey
IMA Diversity Champion
*Definition of Equality: the state of being equal, especially in status, rights, or opportunities.
