SCWIST’S New Project Tackles Gender-based Violence in STEM Workplaces

The Society for Canadian Women in Science and Technology is launching a groundbreaking project aimed at mitigating gender-based violence in STEM workplaces.

Gender-based violence (GBV) in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) workplaces is a pervasive issue that hinders the advancement and well-being of women and gender-diverse individuals.

GBV can range from subtle forms of bias and discrimination to overt acts of violence and sexual harassment. The hostile environment created by such behaviours undermines individual careers and perpetuates gender disparities within STEM fields.

The Society for Canadian Women in Science and Technology (SCWIST)'S new project seeks to address these systemic issues head on by scaling multiple promising practices, such as engaging men to address hierarchical power issues and guided discussions to build empathy and cognitive-behavioural changes. The ultimate goal is to create environments where the spectrum of GBV is recognized and not tolerated. This project will address the intersectional needs of equity-deserving groups, including youth, Indigenous Peoples, Black people, racialized people, newcomers, and members of the 2SLGBTQ+ community, across Canada.

Addressing and preventing GBV

STEM companies and professional associations that participate in the project will receive workplace training, processes, policy recommendations, and resources. A comprehensive knowledge-sharing strategy will help the SCWIST, collaboration partners, and other networks to share resources and tools to expand the impact of the project.

“Addressing and preventing GBV in the workplace will ensure that women and gender-diverse individuals are safe, welcome, valued, and productive,” says SCWIST President Dr. Melanie Ratnam. “We’re creating the environment to ensure that society can fully benefit from diversity, innovation, and creative solutions from STEM sectors to contribute to Canada’s prosperity.”

Ultimately, this project represents a significant step toward achieving gender equity and inclusion in STEM workplaces. By addressing the root causes of GBV and promoting cultural change, we can build a future where all individuals, regardless of gender, can thrive and succeed in STEM fields.