Recommendations for Planning Inclusive Astronomy Conferences

TL;DR

This paper provides a comprehensive set of recommendations for planning inclusive astronomy conferences, aiming to foster diversity, equity, and inclusion based on lessons learned from past events.

Contribution

It offers specific, actionable guidelines for organizing inclusive conferences, applicable beyond the IA series, derived from feedback and experience.

Findings

Developed a detailed set of recommendations for inclusive conference planning

Identified key lessons learned from past IA conferences

Provided a framework applicable to other scientific conferences

Abstract

The Inclusive Astronomy (IA) conference series aims to create a safe space where community members can listen to the experiences of marginalized individuals in astronomy, discuss actions being taken to address inequities, and give recommendations to the community for how to improve diversity, equity, and inclusion in astronomy. The first IA was held in Nashville, TN, USA, 17-19 June, 2015. The Inclusive Astronomy 2 (IA2) conference was held in Baltimore, MD, USA, 14-15 October, 2019. The Inclusive Astronomy 2 (IA2) Local Organizing Committee (LOC) has put together a comprehensive document of recommendations for planning future Inclusive Astronomy conferences based on feedback received and lessons learned. While these are specific to the IA series, many parts will be applicable to other conferences as well. Please find the recommendations and accompanying letter to the community here: https://outerspace.stsci.edu/display/IA2/LOC+Recommendations.