November 9, 2016
Dear NOGLSTP members,
I am writing to share my thoughts gathered over the last twenty-four painful hours on the mission and vision carried through the many years of NOGLSTP’s existence. We have come a long way in our commitment to stand up for LGBTQ+ people in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). Whether it be for recognition, mentoring, scholarship, or equality in the academic and industry workplace, we have worked together to create visibility and opportunity for our community. Over those years we know what it is like to take two steps forward and one step back, yet always with determination to move forward.
And so my message to you today, our members, is not to be discouraged. Take the installation of a new regime in Washington and make it a clarion call for bringing our community together and renewing our commitment to stand tall, proud and visible. Be committed to inspire and motivate LGBTQ+ students in their pursuit of their STEM education, careers, and dreams. Stand with NOGLSTP as it works to enlighten our colleagues, educators, employers, and families to our achievements and our history. Be a science and technology ambassador to not only our LGBTQ+ community, but also to the broader citizenry.
I ask that you stand with me and support NOGLSTP’s programs. Make a commitment to attend Out to Innovate™ 2017 Summit for LGBTQ+ People in STEM in Danvers Massachusetts March 4-5, 2017. Ask your university or your company to sponsor, present a workshop. Take some time to become a mentor in NOGLSTP’s MentorNet program. Volunteer to represent NOGLSTP in its many activities with professional societies. Open your wallet and make a donation to our programming efforts or our Out to Innovate scholarship fund.
We need you to stand with us as NOGLSTP stands with our fellow colleagues and organizations dedicated to diversity and inclusion for all underserved communities and historically under-represented groups, as we work together to do what is right and commit to excellence through diversity. Be courageous in these times and constructively resist efforts to silence us.
In solidarity,
Rochelle Diamond
Chair, NOGLSTP