Diversity Statement

As a school of NYU, the Institute for the Study of the Ancient World shares the university’s commitment to building a culture that respects and embraces diversity, inclusion, and equity. The world is a diverse place with many different points of view, and we believe that the university should reflect that diversity and aspire to inclusion so that all voices are heard. We strive to build an institution that reflects our commitment to equity among people of any and all backgrounds or core identities, including but not limited to those identities by race, ethnicity, class, age, gender, ability, national origin, immigration status, religion, and sexual orientation.

The study of Antiquity has often reflected the background and biases of those who have chosen to pursue it. In the particular context of ISAW, recognizing the role that Eurocentrism has played in our disciplines’ formation and work is especially important. Accordingly, we strive to examine the variety, complexity, and diversity of ancient societies in their totality and across all social levels, and we believe that this goal should be embraced in the study of present circumstances as well. As an institute whose mission is to be a leader in cross-cultural studies of the Ancient World, we have a particular responsibility to overcome stereotype-based bias, to provide a non-discriminatory, fair, and equitable work and learning environment for all faculty, staff, scholars, and students regardless of background or core identity, and to engage with the broadest and most diverse public. We will continue to integrate these principles into all our efforts, including our teaching, research, outreach, collaborations, admissions, and hiring.