(no subject)
So, my friend Jen and I started an informal seminar series at Brock called "Exploring Women in Science: Social Constructs, Development and Progression" and we've got an awesome response from our participants. We've also recieved numerous messages of support from faculty and students who are unable to attend, but have taken the time to tell us they appreciate what we're doing. Out of all the comments of positive support and endorsement, we've received two letters expressing distaste toward our group. Here is the most recent one:
Hello Amanda, a few of our faculty members found the wording from your
poster for this seminar to be offensive and they have asked me not to
forward any of your future emails to them.
Here is the poster:
Exploring Women in Science: Social Constructs, Development and Progression
The next seminar is entitled:
“Motherhood and the Academic Pursuit”
In this seminar we will explore the extent to which science accomodates individuals with child-care responsibilities. We will also explore how the perception of women’s ability to contribute to science is influenced by their ability to reproduce, regardless of whether or not they choose to have children.
To be held on Friday March 17, 2006 in MCF237 from 11:30am to 1pm. Please bring your own lunch.
Initially, we request women-only space in order to establish a supportive network for female participants. We then plan to open the seminars to both men and women in hopes of proactively discussing women in science in an inclusive and non-hostile environment. Students and Faculty Welcome!!
I understand that women-only space may be difficult to embrace when initially confronted with the idea. I wrote back to let the administrative assistant know that we appreciate her informing us of these feelings and welcome any constructive criticism surrounding our presentation or seminar goals, but I feel like we worded this poster very well.
Any insights as to how we could improve here?
Hello Amanda, a few of our faculty members found the wording from your
poster for this seminar to be offensive and they have asked me not to
forward any of your future emails to them.
Here is the poster:
Exploring Women in Science: Social Constructs, Development and Progression
The next seminar is entitled:
“Motherhood and the Academic Pursuit”
In this seminar we will explore the extent to which science accomodates individuals with child-care responsibilities. We will also explore how the perception of women’s ability to contribute to science is influenced by their ability to reproduce, regardless of whether or not they choose to have children.
To be held on Friday March 17, 2006 in MCF237 from 11:30am to 1pm. Please bring your own lunch.
Initially, we request women-only space in order to establish a supportive network for female participants. We then plan to open the seminars to both men and women in hopes of proactively discussing women in science in an inclusive and non-hostile environment. Students and Faculty Welcome!!
I understand that women-only space may be difficult to embrace when initially confronted with the idea. I wrote back to let the administrative assistant know that we appreciate her informing us of these feelings and welcome any constructive criticism surrounding our presentation or seminar goals, but I feel like we worded this poster very well.
Any insights as to how we could improve here?