Royal Astronomical Society Bullying and Harassment Report Launch

In Spring 2020, the RAS carried out a survey around bullying and harassment. The report summarises the experiences of bullying and harassment and related perceptions of workplace culture for astronomers, solar system scientists and geophysicists.

We found that bullying and harassment is systemic in astronomy and geophysics: 44% of the 661 respondents reported suffering it in the workplace in the two years preceding the survey. Furthermore, people from traditionally under-served and under-represented groups (such as Black and minority ethnic people, LGBTQ+ people, women and people with disabilities) are disproportionately affected by this, with many of these groups being ~50% more likely to report bullying and harassment.

The survey and report presented data and findings, and a set of recommendations and actions based on the evidence was created.

During this event we will present the data, findings and recommendations, as well as hear from invited speakers, Heads of Departments from universities, and senior leaders from learned societies.

This event will be live streamed, and lunch will be provided for those attending in person. Please note that the Chatham House Rule will be applied throughout the event to encourage open and candid discussion.

Schedule (stc):

11-1105: Welcome from Chair, expectations, definitions, code of conduct

1105-1125: Presentation on the data and report

1125-1140: Discussion and questions about the findings

1140-1155: Presentation from a HoD, talking about structures, processes, lessons learned

1155-1200: Lunch question set

1200-1245: Lunch, networking and free discussion time

1245-1300: Feedback from lunch question

1300-1315: Presentation on the actions and recommendations

1315-1330: Discussion and questions on actions and recommendations

1330-1345: Talk by 21% group

1345-1400: Comments, questions, close