Equality, diversity and inclusion at Aalto
We are committed to foster an empowered community where everyone feels a sense of belonging and thrive by working together
EDI in times of societal backlash: Fostering individual and collective agency
Welcome to the workshop, where we discuss ways to foster individual and collective agency in terms of equality, diversity, and inclusion (EDI), and establish concrete, actionable practices to apply in our everyday work.
When
–
Where
T004 (Ground floor)
Registration period:
–
Event language(s)
english
In the current times, global political and societal landscape is marked by strong polarization, with one of the effects being societal backlash on EDI issues: a list of forbidden words limits academic freedom in the U.S., multinational corporations have resigned from EDI initiatives, and other organizations are afraid to take on or continue them.
To foster hope, we need to foster agency. Each of us can take meaningful action, but it is also important to recognize the extent of possibilities and limits of individual responsibility and learn to lean towards collective action when needed. That is what we aim at in this workshop.
| Workshop programme | |
|---|---|
| 13:00–14:00 |
Open keynote by Alison Pullen,Professor of Gender, Work and Organization at Macquarie University, Australia EDI in times of societal backlash: fostering individual and collective agency In this talk, Alison discusses the backlash against EDI and the role of institutions and especially Universities, in responding to it. Weaving together Alison’s extensive research on practices of EDI in organizations, the politics of democratic organizing and feminist activism, the talk invites reflection on the importance of individual and collective action to reaffirm EDI and stand in solidarity with those most affected by the backlash. |
| 14:00–14:15 | Coffee break |
| 14:15–16:00 | Workshop facilitated by Leni Grünbaum where we discuss the issues and establish concrete practices and strategies to foster (EDI) agency in our everyday lives. |
| 16:00 onwards | Informal get-together |
Please, register for the workshop by 6.6. For any questions about the workshop, please contact laura.kangas-muller@aalto.fi
The workshop is funded by the School of Business Diversity and Inclusivity Fund.
Alison Pullen
Professor of Gender, Work and Organization, Macquarie University, Australia
Alison was born and raised in Wales and now lives on Gadigal land. As a feminist researcher, Alison has worked with feminist philosophy and methodologies to disrupt dominant institutional norms (including knowledge practices) and explore alternative ways of living.
Alison and colleagues’ recent publications focused on sexism in business schools, feminist social movements, the importance of hope and inclusion for everyday activism, the good business school and organizational responses to domestic violence.
In 2023 Alison was awarded the British Academy of Management Research medal for her sustained contributions to gender research and was inducted as Fellow of the British Academy of Management. She is reading feminist plant philosophy with Sheena Vachhani, queer theory with Elo Reiss and Anna Stöber, democratic organizing in universities with Carl Rhodes, and feminist responsibilities with Alice Wickström.
Organizing team
Leni Grünbaum
Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) Research at Aalto
Aalto University has an active, growing community of researchers conducting research in the field of EDI studies, showcasing excellence in their field.
Equality, Diversity and Inclusion at the School of Business
At Aalto University School of Business we aspire to have a diverse and inclusive student pool and faculty.
Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) plan and progress
EDI Plan summarise the principles and actions towards more equal, diverse, inclusive and accessible community.
Developing Equality, Diversity and Inclusion at Aalto University
We are committed to further developing our community into an equal, diverse and inclusive place to study, work and collaborate in. Our operating model stresses community engagement, accountability and proactive development.