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I called out folks in the waste industry on having another event with no apparent diversity in the speakers. Undiverse panels aren't *the problem*, they are a visible symptom of a system that only works for some.
Suggestions on ways to improve diversity & inclusion in #Waste:
Suggestions on ways to improve diversity & inclusion in #Waste:
1) Everyone agree that they won't be on a panel that isn't at all diverse.
Speakers: if you're refusing on this basis explain it & suggest people you know who may be a good alternative.
Event organisers: understand this for what it is & follow up with the alternatives.
Speakers: if you're refusing on this basis explain it & suggest people you know who may be a good alternative.
Event organisers: understand this for what it is & follow up with the alternatives.
2) If you run an organisation put resources into supporting a broad group of employees to speak at events. Support staff to develop & practise these skills, provide training on public speaking, make time for events & preparing talks in employee schedules or give time off in lieu.
When we started Dsposal Tom did the talks but we soon realised we needed to offer an alternative to another white man. I hated public speaking but I did it because we wanted to tip the scales a tiny bit. Don't hate it so much any more. I wasn't an expert in my topics but I am now
3) Create a database of people who are up for speaking so that when event organisers are looking for speakers they're not just drawing from the pool they know. @Womenwhokeynote did this, but we could have a waste industry-specific one hosted by @CIWM.
4) Think about how/when/where your events are organised & promoted. What about attendees & speakers that aren't like you? Is it doable for those with kids/caring duties? Accessible for folks with disabilities? Might people feel excluded by your language & images?
5) Pay your speakers. At least those who work for themselves/have to do this outside of work. Not everyone is lucky enough to get a nice salary that allows them to accept every speaking gig. If this isn't acknowledged you're not including those who can't afford to accept.
6) Trade organisations offer Diversity & Inclusion specialists alongside the HR/Legal/Tax services that are often provided. D&I is not the responsibility of the excluded. Hire experts. @CIWM, @ESA_tweets, @iemanet this could be something you offer members https://twitter.com/novareidoffic/status/1285834716038520837?s=20
7) Run an organisation? Have you looked at your workplace, working hours, contracts, recruitment practices, career progression, social events, targets, marketing, pay structure, everything through a gender or racial equality lens? You should. You'll be surprised what you discover
8) Be an ally. Educate yourself. Be brave enough to stand up for what's right & make space for other voices. These are complex, centuries-old patterns we're rewriting, it's going to take time & we'll make mistakes, but as those with privilege it's our job to do the work.
