Historically excluded groups in ecology are undervalued and poorly treated

Abstract

Hostile workplaces undermine efforts to make the ecological sciences more inclusive and welcoming. Survey responses by members of the Ecological Society of America (ESA) and subscribers to the ECOLOG-L listserv provide a snapshot of a range of workplace experiences in ecology. The bottom line: identity matters. Although the majority of respondents reported positive workplace experiences (for instance, receiving mentorship), historically excluded groups – including scientists of color; women; lesbian, gay, bisexual, queer, pansexual, asexual, and other non-heterosexual (LGBQPA+) individuals; and those who identify as disabled – on average were 1.5 times more likely to encounter negative workplace experiences (for instance, sexual harassment, interpersonal mistreatment, and insulting behaviors) as compared to their counterparts in the historical majority. Moreover, historically excluded groups were more likely to report opting out of professional opportunities, more likely to have considered leaving their institution, and twice as likely to consider a career change. We provide recommendations for professional associations, academic institutions, and other employers of ecologists to address interpersonal mistreatment through culture and policy changes.