The New, New Normal | What Now? S01E01

TL;DR

Maydianne Andrade discusses anti-racism, the Canadian Black Scientist Network, and spider evolution on The New Normal podcast.

Transcript

From the University of Toronto, I'm Randy Boyagoda and this is What Now? Are we gonna start breakdance hello'ing as well now? [laughter]. [Andrade] Yeah, I think we can. [Boyagoda] Okay, good to see you Maydianne. Welcome. [Andrade] Good to see you too. Thank you. [Boyagoda] Thank you for coming to Faculty of Arts and Science here on the St. Geor... Read More

Key Insights

• 🇦🇬 Andrade emphasizes the importance of understanding different perspectives on anti-racism and equity.
• 🖤 The Canadian Black Scientist Network aims to provide representation and support for Black scholars in the sciences.
• 🙂 Andrade's research on black widow spiders sheds light on the complexity of genetic and environmental influences on evolution.
• 👶 The "new new normal" should prioritize awareness, fairness, and positive societal change.
• 🍝 Avoid invoking the past to justify present actions, as it may perpetuate harmful norms.
• 💦 Andrade's work challenges conventional ideas about genetics, race, and biological categorizations.
• 🎙️ The podcast explores pandemic challenges and societal shifts towards a more inclusive future.

Questions & Answers

Q: How does Maydianne Andrade address anti-racism and equity in her podcast?

Maydianne Andrade discusses her experiences with anti-Black and anti-Asian racism, emphasizing the importance of understanding different perspectives and the challenges marginalized groups face in society.

Q: What is the significance of the Canadian Black Scientist Network, and how did it come about?

The Canadian Black Scientist Network was formed in response to increased racial awareness following George Floyd's murder, aiming to provide representation and support to Black scholars in the sciences and combat deficit narratives.

Q: How does Maydianne Andrade's research on black widow spiders contribute to broader understanding of evolution and genetics?

Andrade's research reveals that genes alone do not determine outcomes, as environmental factors also play a crucial role. This challenges traditional views on genetics, race, and biological categorizations.

Q: What societal changes does Maydianne Andrade advocate for in the context of the "new new normal"?

Andrade calls for awareness of systemic differences and injustices, urging people to move beyond justifications based on past norms and embrace a more equitable and inclusive future.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• Maydianne Andrade, a Canadian ecologist, shares insights on anti-racism and the Canadian Black Scientist Network.

• She explores the mating habits of black widow spiders to understand evolution and genetics.

• The podcast delves into pandemic challenges and the need for societal change towards equity.