Inclusion and international cooperation

The organizers of ProSynFest2020 are working hard to create a stimulating meeting, which will bring together scientists from around the world to document the past, present and chart the future of marine cyanobacterial science. This meeting will coalesce a broad diversity of participants and we value and encourage their participation regardless of their race, religion, ethnicity, gender identity, sexual orientation, country of origin or nationality.  The site we have chosen for the meeting, Córdoba (Spain), has a rich and varied history and is recognized for its tolerance of diverse religions and convergence of cultures: Christians, Jews and Muslims coexisted peacefully in the Caliphate of Córdoba, in a time when Córdoba was the main center of science and culture in Europe. This spirit will provide inspiration for the collaborative, respectful atmosphere we want to stimulate during ProSynFest2020.  To help foster a safe, productive and welcoming environment we have crafted a statement on inclusion and international cooperation (see below) that we expect all participants to uphold to help achieve the colloquium’s goals of advancing scientific discussion and promoting collaboration.

Statement on inclusion and international cooperation

The study of marine microbes crosses many disciplines and is an international enterprise that relies on scientists from countries around the world. ProSynFest2020 values the importance of inclusiveness and of the exchange of information and ideas beyond national boundaries in a safe, productive and welcoming environment for all participants. Rights and privileges should not be based on gender identity, skin color, religion or country of origin.  We know that diversity in thought and background is critical to good science. As values of equality and diversity are threatened worldwide, we commit ourselves to welcoming and including all attendees regardless of their race, religion, ethnicity, gender identity, sexual orientation, country of origin or nationality in an environment free of discrimination, harassment, intimidation and bullying.