Dr Zuleyka Zevallos

Noting that Science in Australia Gender Equity, the Academy of Science's national gender equity and diversity program, has scrubbed all references to #intersectionality from their website, which my team worked on 2015-2016. Collateral now only features White women. #marginsci

Materials on #intersectionality drew on my personal research, maintained by my team, all since gone. Materials were there until recent months. Wiped since I spoke out against the Academy/SAGE's inaction over sexual harassment by Professor Speed. Awards are due in Sep 2018.

#Intersectionality was the greatest source of conflict between myself as program manager and senior leaders in/ linked to the Academy. Many did not want Athena SWAN to focus on principles of intersectionality, which were added to the Charter in 2015, prior to our pilot launch

In my time as manager, I saw deep dedication amongst individual teams & leaders working towards Athena SWAN awards. The problem comes from the top. Uncollegial responses to #intersectionality incl exec White men &women pounding tables & kicking chairs in my presence. #marginsci

#WOC with specialised training & commitment to #intersectionality lead equity & diversity initiatives with true inclusion & accessibility. We are hampered by lack of resources, authority to make required changes, and a hostile workplace culture resistant to change. #marginsci

#Intersectionality was only added to the Athena SWAN Charter in the UK after a pilot with non-STEM faculties, who noted gaps on inclusion of minorities. Programs without intersectionality will NEVER lead to true equity & diversity. Intersectionality requires proactive change.