Intersectionality was first defined 35 years ago by Professor Kimberlé Crenshaw as a way to describe how race, class, gender, and other individual characteristics “intersect” with one another and overlap to affect the lived experience of individuals in the world, including discrimination they may encounter. However, this term didn’t become popularized beyond academia until ~2017 during the Women’s March on Washington in the U.S. where it was used to describe the multitude of social justice and human rights issues that different female-identifying individuals can face. By first understanding identity and representation through the lens of intersectionality, society can begin to uncover deep structural and systemic questions about discrimination and inequality. During this hands-on group activity, we will visualize our intersectional identities, learn how specific intersectional groups can face unique challenges that result in inequality, and discuss ways to create a more egalitarian system through advocacy and remedial practices.

Facilitators

Danielle Rowland

Danielle Rowland (she/her) is a Broadening Participation Program Manager at the National Radio Astronomy Observatory (NRAO). At NRAO she manages multiple student programs operated by the Office of Diversity and Inclusion and the student facing aspects of various observatory projects. Danielle is an enrolled member of the Tonawanda Seneca Nation, Snipe Clan, located in western New York State in the U.S. She has a B.A. in Astrophysics from Columbia University and a 7+ year background in astronomy, educational outreach, and equity and inclusion efforts.


Sandrine Thomas

Sandrine Thomas is the Deputy Director and lead Workplace Culture Advocate for Vera C. Rubin Observatory Construction. She cares about fostering a healthy workplace culture, promoting diversity and inclusion. Having lived and worked in now three very different countries, she is more sensitive to diverse opinions and processes.

Event Details

FORMAT: Interactive workshop session hosted by SPIE volunteers.
MENU: Boxed meal service for the first 40 attendees with gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegetarian options available.
SETUP: Round tables with approximately 8 chairs per table.