Food for Thought: Opportunities to Improve Diversity, Inclusion, Representation, and Participation in Epidemiology

Abstract

Abstract DeVilbiss et al. (Am J Epidemiol. 2020;189(10):998–1010) have taken on the noble and worthy cause of improving diversity, inclusion, representation, and participation across the Society for Epidemiologic Research (SER) membership—a reflection/microcosm of society. The objective of this commentary is to underscore the importance of diversity and to offer initiative ideas, which should be centered around inequity stemming from the widespread historical and contemporary maldistribution of power (e.g., decision-making) and resources (e.g., funding) within institutions and organizations. Nonexhaustive strategies could include SER becoming an opportunity and information hub that helps to fill resource gaps. It is also recommended that SER leadership learn from existing associations and scientific initiatives to improve the culture of science in general by equitably incorporating policy, systems, and environmental interventions throughout the career spectrum. Examples include the provision of tools and incentives to address explicit or implicit biases, enhance mentoring skills, and remove predictable barriers (e.g., financial). Explicitly labeling diversity/inclusion efforts should be avoided, and the initiative should be evaluated based on impact rather than intent. Our fates are interconnected, and we can all help increase diversity, inclusion, representation, and participation to improve our science in hopes of equitably improving public health.