Combating Racism in the Geosciences: Reflections From a Black Professor

Racism is part of my lived experience as a Black person in America. Similarly, microaggressions and systemic racism form part of the common experience for BIPOC+ Geoscientists. This commentary is not intended to be fodder for the oppression‐porn industry that stokes the passions of the “recently woke.” I speak with a unique perspective on the geoscience community and provide concrete recommendations for systemic change. It is time that we faced the realities of structural racism and invested in the real work necessary to make the geosciences diverse, equitable, and inclusive. Geoscientists need the entire community to work together to become anti‐racist. Plain Language Summary The geoscience community struggles to achieve its vision of a diverse, equitable, open, and welcoming field of study. It is time that we faced the realities of structural racism and invested in the real work necessary to realize that vision for everyone. Geoscientists need the entire community to work together to become anti‐racist. This commentary provides some perspectives from a 25‐year career dedicated to producing science and increasing access for members of racialized groups to advanced training and careers in geosciences. Key Points The geoscience community struggles to achieve its vision of an equitable, open, and welcoming field of study due to structural racism and resistance to change Historically Black Colleges and Universities have proven strategies for producing diverse talent where predominantly white institutions have failed. Efforts must be sustained and collectivist Representation at all levels and equitable partnerships with MSIs are the cornerstone elements in a systemic strategy for transformative change of the geosciences