Dear ANZAMEMS Members,

At the 2016 ANZAMEMS AGM, Professor Stephanie Trigg drew the Association’s attention to recent discussion in social media concerning some disturbing anti-feminist material circulating on the website of a prominent medievalist. She highlighted that further reports had been circulated of sexual harassment, plagiarism, and sexist behaviour from a range of institutions and conferences of medieval and early modern studies worldwide. Following discussion, it was determined that, in line with a number of medieval societies, the Association would formulate a statement of principle about behaviour at conferences, and the conduct of academic business.

An ad hoc committee on Equity and Diversity, chaired by the Secretary, has recently completed work on a general statement of ethical principles that pertains to equity and diversity in our Association. We are extremely pleased to be able to circulate this statement to the membership. As part of this process, the General Committee will be appointing Diversity Officers from the existing ad hoc committee to assist any members if there is an issue they wish to raise. At the next AGM, the General Committee we will propose the permanent establishment of a committee on Equity and Diversity.

We hope you will agree that this is a positive and meaningful step forward for the Association. We have always been a friendly organisation that is respectful of the rights, views and orientations of others and this statement is intended to affirm and entrench those values.

A copy of the Association’s Diversity and Equity Statement can be downloaded at the ANZAMEMS website: http://anzamems.org/?page_id=12

Clare Monagle, Secretary
Chris Jones, President