Acronyms
DEI: Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
BIPoC: Black, Indigenous, (and) People of Color
APS: American Physical Society
IDEA: Inclusion, Diversity, and Equity Alliance
HBCU: Historically Black Colleges and Universities
Definitions
Cultural words and self-identity words vary in meaning with the user. They also change over time. This glossary should be used as a tool for basic reference. It should never be used to label others
Ally: A person who is not a part of a particular marginalized group but who stands up for and advocates for the rights of people in that group
Intersectionality: The complex and overlapping ways that an individual’s many identities (sexual orientation, gender, race, ethnicity, ability, socioeconomic status, immigration status, language, size, religion, etc.) come together and shape the experiences and interactions. Prejudice and discrimination related to overlapping identities are unique and are different from prejudice and discrimination faced by people with each individual identity
Implicit Bias: a prejudice that is present but not consciously held or recognized
LGBTQ+: (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, and more) One of the many initialisms created to express all sexual and gender minorities
Microaggression: A commonplace comment or behavior toward a marginalized group that is hurtful, insulting, or demeaning; may or may not be intentionally insulting