Session 67: Why Are There Fewer Women Mathematicians than Men Mathematicians? Challenges and Solutions

Category: Equity for Women

Organizers:
Mina Teicher (University of Miami, USA and Bar-Ilan University, Israel, contact organizer)
Liliana Forzani (Universidad Nacional de Litoral, Argentina)
Jaqueline Mesquita (Universidade de Brasília, Brazil)
Julia Sacca (Columbia University, USA)

Introduction
We recognize the critical need to address the underrepresentation of women in the field of mathematics. The gender gap in mathematics is huge while diversity and inclusion is a contemporary societal challenge. WIMSA at the University of Miami (Advancing Women in Mathematics Across the Americas), is an initiative whose aim is to address these issues. Latino i-WIMSA is one of the activities of WIMSA with the aim to connect women mathematicians across the continent.

Purpose
The purpose of this session is to surface the underlying causes behind this disparity and suggest methods to increase participation, visibility, and empowerment of women in mathematics. We intend to organize the following activities:

Schedule
Opening: Introduction, Mina Teicher, director of the initiative "advancing women in mathematics across the Americas" (WIMSA) (10 minutes)

Activity 1: Presentation of the current challenges concerning girls and women in mathematics (30 minutes)
Abstract: We present the challenges related to the education system, academia, and knowledge based industries.

Activity 2: Round table: Whom to blame? (30 minutes)
Abstract: In this session, we confront the stark realities that girls and women encounter in the field of mathematics. We aim to unveil Systemic Discrimination, Unconscious Bias, The Invisible Barrier; work-life challenges typical to women mathematicians, Societal Expectations and Stereotypes Harassment.

Activity 3: Round table: Solutions (30 minutes)
Abstract: While recognizing the challenges that women face in mathematics is important, it is equally vital to focus on solutions and proactive steps that can be taken to foster a more inclusive environment. Among other solutions we shall include (1) Promoting Early Engagement. (2) Supportive Networks and Mentorship. (3) Equitable Practices. (4) Work-Life Balance Support. (5) Discrimination. (6) Combating Harassment. (7) Opportunities. By focusing on these solutions, we aim to foster a more supportive, equitable, and inclusive environment for women in mathematics. This will not only benefit women, but also enrich the field of mathematics with diverse perspectives and talents. 

Activity 4: Contributions from the audience: (20 minutes)

Session 68: Math Outreach – What to Do, What Not to Do and Why Is It So Important

Organizers:
Jeanette Shakalli (Panamanian Foundation for the Promotion of Mathematics (FUNDAPROMAT), Republic of Panama, contact organizer)
Joyati Debnath (Winona State University, USA)

Description
The Panamanian Foundation for the Promotion of Mathematics (FUNDAPROMAT) invites all members of the mathematics community to attend our special session on math outreach. Attendees will hear from panelists who have run math outreach initiatives, providing them with advice on what to do and what not to do when organizing these types of events. Speakers from a wide variety of life experiences will illustrate why math outreach is so important and share the challenges they have faced and the results they have achieved. We aim to empower more members of the mathematics community to return to their own institutions and organize outreach activities around the world.