We recognize that STEM disciplines and, more broadly, academia have a troubling history of systemic exclusion and inequality that continue to persist to this day. We—both individually and as a community—must work harder to condemn racism and racially motivated violence, and to affirm our commitment to working towards greater equity and racial justice through our teaching, research and civic engagement. These goals will not happen without the full engagement of the scientific community. To ensure that our lab is engaged in these critical conversations, we set aside time during group meetings once a month for discussions centered around diversity, equity and inclusion. We are committed to educate ourselves on these important issues and to identify ways to lead change in our own lab, our department, and within the Tufts community.