Diversity and inclusion initiatives in astronomy have been carried out for many years. From public engagement to unconscious bias training and awarding institutions for their work to create diversity in the workplace, we have carried out many and varied activities and programmes to encourage a more diverse and inclusive workplace and culture.
However, many of these interventions are merely box-ticking exercises or feel-good activities that are highly visible, but have no lasting impact. Many have no evidence to support their effectiveness or they are focused too narrowly on particular groups.
By some measures, it will take decades to change the underrepresentation of marginalised groups, using the current paradigm of diversity and inclusion initiatives. Clearly, what we have been doing is not working.
In order to enact meaningful change, we must be willing to have open, honest meaningful conversations about the problems in astronomy in terms of diversity and inclusion.
We require evidence-based initiatives that will drive real change in the workforce, culture and institutions that make up astronomy.
