AIChE is outraged by the recent events that have highlighted systemic racism, discrimination, and inequality especially as they pertain to people of color in our country today. These abhorrent events clearly conflict with AIChE’s aspiration to inspire a safe, connected, and inclusive community of chemical engineers Doing a World of Good. Everyone should have the ability to live their life and pursue their livelihood within a safe environment.
We at AIChE are fervently committed to promoting equity among all individuals. We believe that groups who have experienced historical and current discrimination continue to face challenges entering or participating in the engineering and scientific professions. AIChE’s vision of our Institute and profession is one where discrimination and conscious or unconscious bias are unwelcome and unacceptable. Efforts to support and promote equity, diversity, and inclusion must also address the root causes of inequities, not just their expressions.
As a community of global leaders within the chemical engineering profession, AIChE is committed to maintaining the highest standards of integrity, fairness, and respect for all. These tenets form the very foundation of our Institute and are embodied in our Code of Ethics.
A primary goal in AIChE’s Strategic Plan is to support underrepresented minorities and expand the diversity and inclusivity of the profession. To these individuals, we stress the Institute’s commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion across the profession by:
- Beginning engagement early (i.e., in middle and high schools)
- Exploring alternative pathways into chemical engineering education
- Promoting inclusion programs
- Working toward these common goals with partner organizations, universities, and corporations.
We have come a long way in promoting these ideals. However, there is still much to be accomplished, and AIChE remains resolved to progress forward. We urge all members of our professional community to stand up, speak out, and take action against any form of racism wherever it occurs.