TOS Values Statement

The Oceanography Society (TOS) is committed to supporting a community that encourages the open expression and exchange of ideas, free from all forms of discrimination, harassment, and retaliation.

These words do not automatically lead to equality, diversity, equity, and inclusion. They are a call to action to reverse a history of discrimination in which scientific communities, including ours, often fail to attain those aspirations.

In response to the current developments in the United States and around the world, TOS reaffirms its core values of equal opportunity and treatment for all. We join others around the world in rejecting hate, violence, and unequal treatment of any individual or group, whether by government agencies or private entities and individuals. We know that our science, and our societies, function better when minds are open, when we respect and care for each other, and when our communities protect the fundamental rights of every individual.

Solving these longstanding problems calls us to act individually and through our institutions. TOS is committed to taking specific actions, starting with listening to the concerns of our members, in particular to those of color and from historically marginalized groups and taking concrete steps to eradicate discrimination. The Society recently established an Ethics Committee and a comprehensive policy on Professional Integrity, Ethics, and Conduct. We are now modifying our Council membership, adding positions for Student and Early Career Councilors. We are also expanding the duties of our At-Large Councilor to include a focus on promoting equity, diversity, and inclusion.  We look forward to further conversation with our membership regarding these issues and how TOS can best live up to and advance its values.

The oceanography community in general, and TOS in particular, may be small. But if we work together to promote justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion, we can build a thriving, sustainable, and equitable future for our community.

TOS Presidents,

Martin Visbeck (current), Andone Lavery (incoming), and Alan Mix (past)