Suggestions for Supporting Marginalized Group Members at Sea

Oceanography in the U.S. remains a discipline with one of the lowest rates of diversity, having disproportionately low representation from marginalized groups, including Black, Asian, LatinX, Indigenous, and other people of color; LGBTQIA+ individuals; disabled persons; women; and low-income students. With equity and inclusion in mind, efforts are being made to increase the number of members from marginalized groups through multiple entry points, including internships. However, a particular component of many oceanographic careers continues to present a barrier for marginalized groups: participating on research cruises. Herein, we have gathered for the oceanographic community a long list of suggestions for ways to prioritize the physical and emotional safety of marginalized members participating in a cruise, including guidance on preparation, implementation, and providing support post-cruise. We look forward to gathering far more suggestions from the marine community at the conference and to presenting our findings widely.