AbbVie backs Franklin Women to narrow gender gap on Wikipedia

ESG: AbbVie recently supported the Franklin Women Wikipedia Edit-a-thon, an impactful event aimed at increasing the visibility of women and gender-diverse individuals in the science sector on Wikipedia.

Over 100 women from the health, medical, and life sciences participated Sydney and Canberra, addressing the significant gender bias present on the online encyclopaedia, where only 19% of profiles are about women.

The event is part of a global movement to ensure that Wikipedia better represents diverse talent in STEMM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics, and Medicine) and their contributions to society.

Dr Melina Georgousakis, founder of Franklin Women, emphasised the importance of the event.

“Addressing gender bias on Wikipedia is not just about equity; it’s about ensuring scientific discoveries and their societal impact are accurately captured. Wikipedia plays a significant role in informing people about the history of science and the contributions of under-represented groups.”

During the edit-a-thon, participants created 32 new articles and updated 100 existing ones, adding a total of 43,500 words to highlight the achievements of female health and medical researchers. This was the third edit-a-thon hosted by Franklin Women, a social enterprise that empowers women in health and medical research. AbbVie Australia has supported this initiative since 2019.

“Edit-a-thons are just one step; there are many ways to help shift gender bias on Wikipedia. From being mindful of gender bias when sourcing information to creating or updating Wikipedia bios for women you admire, it all makes a difference. To support this effort, Franklin Women has prepared tutorials available on our website,” Dr Georgousakis added.

Edwina Elliott, Head of Corporate Communications at AbbVie Australia, remarked “It’s important to support grassroots activities and elevate the visibility and contributions of women in science.

“AbbVie is committed to celebrating diversity and advancing gender equity. Supporting the Franklin Women Edit-a-Thon was a meaningful way to ensure that many inspiring women who have made remarkable contributions to science are recognised for their work.”

Notable women who had pages created about them include Amanda Baric, Carol Armour, Carol Pollock, Cathie Sherrington, Cheryl Jones (paediatrician), Donna Cross (academic), Felice Jacka, Helen Skouteris, Jane Hall (Australian health economist), Kate Leslie, Lyn March, Stephanie Watson, Vanessa Pirotta, Xiaojing Hao, Bronwyn Hemsley, Carolyn Geczy, Clara Chow, Francine Marques, Hannah Dahlen, Justine Smith, Michelle Lincoln, and Sarah Wayland.

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