Disobedience Award

MIT Media Lab

Update, August 2020: We were disappointed to learn of the unethical behavior of 2018 Disobedience Award winner BethAnn McLaughlin in fabricating a Twitter account to falsely pose as a Native American scientist. However, the Disobedience Award was not made solely to Dr. McLaughlin, but to her and two other recipients as representatives of the #MeToo and #MeTooSTEM movements. We continue to wholeheartedly support the work of the other pioneers of these movements, both in academia and outside of it. 

In that spirit, we will no longer recognize Dr. McLaughlin as a co-recipient of the 2018 Disobedience Award, and we have removed references to her on the official award website. The Media Lab has no current relationship with Dr. McLaughlin, nor will it pursue one.

The Media Lab remains committed to furthering the cause of justice for members of vulnerable and marginalized communities and to breaking the silence around sexual harassment and abuse.

Congratulations to Tarana Burke and Sherry Marts, the winners of the 2018 Disobedience Award!

Tarana Burke is the founder of the “Me Too” Movement; she has dedicated her life to advocating for those who have experienced sexual trauma or harassment, particularly survivors who are women of color and from low-wealth communities.

Sherry Marts is a consultant who helps academic and nonprofit organizations more fair and welcoming, with a particular focus on preventing harassment at conferences and events.

Watch the full 2018 event

Learn about all of the 2018 Disobedience Award winners and finalists

Explore the 2018 event