NIH Director Francis Collins, MD, PhD, declared June 12 he will no longer speak on "manels," or all-male panels, to signal a commitment to the advancement of women in science.
"Too often, women and members of other groups underrepresented in science are conspicuously missing in the marquee speaking slots at scientific meetings and other high-level conferences," Dr. Collins said in a statement.
He said if scientific meeting and conference agendas are not inclusive, he will decline to speak. He also encouraged other leaders to follow suit.
"It is not enough to give lip service to equality; leaders must demonstrate their commitment through their actions," Dr. Collins said.
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