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arXiv · 1907.04943

Astro2020 APC White Paper: Accessible Astronomy: Policies, Practices, and Strategies to Increase Participation of Astronomers with Disabilities

Alicia Aarnio·Nicholas Murphy·Karen Knierman·Wanda Diaz Merced·Alan Strauss·Sarah Tuttle·Jacqueline Monkiewicz·Adam Burgasser·Lia Corrales·Mia Sauda Bovill·Jason Nordhaus·Allyson Bieryla·Patrick Young·Jacob Noel-Storr·Jennifer Cash·Nicole Cabrera Salazar·Hyunseop Choi
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Abstract

(Abridged) In this white paper, we outline the major barriers to access within the educational and professional practice of astronomy. We present current best practices for inclusivity and accessibility, including classroom practices, institutional culture, support for infrastructure creation, hiring processes, and outreach initiatives. We present specific ways--beyond simple compliance with the ADA--that funding agencies, astronomers, and institutions can work together to make astronomy as a field more accessible, inclusive, and equitable. In particular, funding agencies should include the accessibility of institutions during proposal evaluation, hold institutions accountable for inaccessibility, and support efforts to gather data on the status and progress of astronomers and astronomy students with disabilities.

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Alicia Aarnio, Nicholas Murphy, Karen Knierman, Wanda Diaz Merced, Alan Strauss, Sarah Tuttle, Jacqueline Monkiewicz, Adam Burgasser, Lia Corrales, Mia Sauda Bovill, Jason Nordhaus, Allyson Bieryla, Patrick Young, Jacob Noel-Storr, Jennifer Cash, Nicole Cabrera Salazar, Hyunseop Choi. 2019-07-10. Astro2020 APC White Paper: Accessible Astronomy: Policies, Practices, and Strategies to Increase Participation of Astronomers with Disabilities. https://arxiv.org/abs/1907.04943

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