Friendly and appealing communities in which all can thrive 
People drive science and the good of the world forward. Empowerment to unlock the potential of all matters. Team work makes the dream work. As such, I take pride in being an energetic and imaginative woman of STEMM who does whatever she can to widen access and engagement in science and to address the need for greater diversity more broadly. As a planetary scientist I am not a trained expert in matters of diversity, but am happy to help where possible. I’m presently serving as Co-Chair to the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee of the European Association of Geochemistry – https://www.eag.eu.com/about/dei/
Given my ‘invisible’ difference, under law I classify as disabled. This is legal terminology; I ascribe to the social model of disability and do what I can to raise awareness of ableism and prompt progressive thinking and procedural reforms.

Complex and sometimes painful problems and barriers to justice, diversity, equity, and inclusion agendas (systemic and cultural) require tackling from all conceivable angles, and likely also deconstructing in ways we are yet to recognise but shall get behind with gusto when learnt of. Giving back through service to the community is a good thing. Both diversity and zeal, are always required for outstanding and ingenious achievements to be realised. These are friendly and constructive goals in which everyone has a responsibility to contribute. In uniting so we proactively cultivate and build communities with positively progressive cultures in which all kinds of people with varied ways of thinking can feel that they belong.

Wellbeing, ableness / disability, and conditions that enable and empower 
Every kind of person can be ambitious in pursuing all kinds of exciting and constructive professional opportunities, and should do so without hindrance or counterproductive forms of gatekeeping. Good places and systems of employ actively ensure and promote both equity and high-standards of wellbeing among personnel while accessing all possible talent pools.

The differing aspirations / destinations for each person’s career and life successes are natural and should be celebrated. As such we should promote the benefits that arise from true diversity, equity, and inclusion. If we are all the same, or very similar, we have failed. It costs nothing to be polite, kind, and respectful. Be happy in what you do and where you are, and / or where you are heading – wherever that may be – while working on and sharing in what you love.

Everyone is an individual. We must be self-critical and should not be complicit in systemic problems such as over-work, exploitation, discrimination, bias, and exclusion of minoritised and marginalised groups. Cultures of denial and / or silence are forms of oppression and to be disapproved. Where illness, disability, or other protected characteristics are concerned, there are applicable legislative frameworks (e.g., the Equality Act) and reasonable accommodations that are legal requirements of employers. In this context you can gain assistance if ever needed because we should all work under suitable circumstances. Should any member of the community wish for advice, confidential and impartial staffed helplines are available and trade unions can likely offer further support. Contact info can be provided to anyone who asks me for it, and discretion will be respected.

I’m sorry I know so little. I’m sorry we all know so little.
But that’s kind of the fun, isn’t it?
Vera Rubin