Difference between revisions of "Steve Diggs Candidate Statement"

Latest revision as of 17:33, June 2, 2025

Candidate for Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, and Justice (EDIJ) Chair

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Steve Diggs

I'm honored to stand for re-election as Chair of ESIP's Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, and Justice Committee. Over the past year, we've successfully transitioned from an Advisory Committee to a permanent Standing Committee - a testament to ESIP's commitment to institutionalizing EDIJ principles. Our team has recruited new members, established dedicated communication channels (Slack #edij_committee, edij@esipfed.org), and aligned our work with ESIP's strategic goals of broadening participation and fostering an inclusive culture.

In facing unprecedented headwinds against EDIJ work nationally, I propose adopting the BRIDGE approach: Building Resources, Inclusion, and Diversity through Guided Equity. This framework emphasizes measurable progress by bridging gaps between intent and impact, ensuring compliance while advancing opportunities, and creating sustainable pathways for underrepresented groups in Earth science. The BRIDGE approach allows us to navigate current challenges while maintaining our core mission.

A Dual Approach for Lasting Impact

Our strategy combines immediate action with long-term structural change:

Short-term wins: Strengthen partnerships with AGU's D&I Advisory Committee and other organizations to launch visible initiatives like mentoring programs and inclusive event guidelines
Long-term transformation: Embed EDIJ principles into ESIP's governance, collaboration frameworks, and community development through data-driven approaches

Key Priorities for 2025-2027:

Strengthen Foundations: Formalize our committee operations with regular meetings and clear metrics for success
Strategic Partnerships: Expand collaborations with AGU, HBCUs, and international groups to create talent pipelines and share best practices
Resilient Leadership: Showcase how diversity drives innovation in Earth science through case studies and member spotlights

The current climate makes our work more challenging - and more crucial - than ever. By combining practical solutions with principled leadership, we can ensure ESIP remains at the forefront of equitable Earth science. I would be grateful for your support to continue this important work.

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 '''Candidate for Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, and Justice (EDIJ) Chair'''[[File:Steve Diggs.png|alt=Steve Diggs, candidate headshot|thumb|Steve Diggs]]
-I would be pleased to serve again as Chair of the ESIP Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, and Justice (EDIJ) Committee. As an ESIP member for many years, I'm committed to advancing EDIJ principles, which are vital to ESIP’s mission and our field's future.
+I'm honored to stand for re-election as Chair of ESIP's Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, and Justice Committee. Over the past year, we've successfully transitioned from an Advisory Committee to a permanent Standing Committee - a testament to ESIP's commitment to institutionalizing EDIJ principles. Our team has recruited new members, established dedicated communication channels (Slack #edij_committee, [[/mailto:edij@esipfed.org/|edij@esipfed.org]]), and aligned our work with ESIP's strategic goals of broadening participation and fostering an inclusive culture.
-As Chair I would prioritize:
+In facing unprecedented headwinds against EDIJ work nationally, I propose adopting the BRIDGE approach: '''Building Resources, Inclusion, and Diversity through Guided Equity'''. This framework emphasizes measurable progress by bridging gaps between intent and impact, ensuring compliance while advancing opportunities, and creating sustainable pathways for underrepresented groups in Earth science. The BRIDGE approach allows us to navigate current challenges while maintaining our core mission.
-Championing Inclusive Practices: Embedding EDIJ principles into all ESIP activities, amplifying underrepresented voices, and removing systemic barriers.
+'''A Dual Approach for Lasting Impact'''
-Fostering a Welcoming Community: Building on current EDIJ work to ensure every member feels valued, respected, and empowered.
+Our strategy combines immediate action with long-term structural change:
-Developing Actionable EDIJ Goals: Setting clear, measurable goals and strategies for meaningful change in collaboration with the community.
+* '''Short-term wins:''' Strengthen partnerships with AGU's D&I Advisory Committee and other organizations to launch visible initiatives like mentoring programs and inclusive event guidelines
+* '''Long-term transformation:''' Embed EDIJ principles into ESIP's governance, collaboration frameworks, and community development through data-driven approaches
-Collaborating Across ESIP: Partnering with ESIP committees, clusters, and leadership to integrate EDIJ considerations throughout our work.
+'''Key Priorities for 2025-2027:'''
-I am passionate about translating ESIP's EDIJ values into tangible actions that benefit all members and strengthen Earth science. I would be honored to have your support.
+# '''Strengthen Foundations:''' Formalize our committee operations with regular meetings and clear metrics for success
+# '''Strategic Partnerships:''' Expand collaborations with AGU, HBCUs, and international groups to create talent pipelines and share best practices
+# '''Resilient Leadership:''' Showcase how diversity drives innovation in Earth science through case studies and member spotlights
+The current climate makes our work more challenging - and more crucial - than ever. By combining practical solutions with principled leadership, we can ensure ESIP remains at the forefront of equitable Earth science. I would be grateful for your support to continue this important work.