Diversity and inclusion principles

Science misses out if it is not for and by all of us. At the Donders Institute, we strive for a research culture that is open, inclusive, and diverse. We believe all researchers should have equitable access to research and learning resources, allowing each individual to develop to the best of their ability. We gain strength by welcoming people as they are and we want to value the contribution of every individual.

We are committed to creating a safe and welcoming working environment for all people. We want our researchers, staff, and students to be able to live as themselves and work without fear of discrimination or harassment.

Fighting inequality

When we say ‘diversity’ we mean everything that makes us unique – this includes identities and groups based on gender, race, ethnic origin, sexual orientation, disability, religion, belief, age, personality and other factors that make us who we are.

We know that our society, including ourselves as individuals and the organization, is not as inclusive as we could be, and we want to change that. We acknowledge that along the way we will make mistakes. We continue to learn how individuals and groups are marginalised at our institute. We commit to being transparent and accountable in our efforts to combat inequalities and creating an inclusive environment for all.  As we learn more about the barriers that disadvantage certain groups in our institute, we will work to remove them.

To learn and improve we will listen to and rely on underrepresented minorities. We realise that this can put additional strain and burden on those who are already disadvantaged. This is why we will encourage everyone to be an ally of marginalised groups and aid in our progress towards a sustainable solution. We believe each of us has a responsibility for eradicating discrimination and in contributing to an inclusive research environment.

Inclusion Seminars

Based on these principles we organise a series of inclusion seminars. Donders researchers with different backgrounds and from all levels of experience are invited to present their research in any way they like. The goal is to provide an accessible and inclusive platform for every researcher at the Donders Institute.

Commitments

• We will be respectful, sensitive, and understanding.
• We will listen to those who are underrepresented.
• We will place people at the centre of decision-making that affects them.
• We will hold people’s privacy and personal boundaries high.
• We will promote transparency and accountability.
• We will acquire and share data on diversity and inclusion.
• We will actively work to eliminate under-representation of minorities at all levels.