Stop legitimizing the lie: Every acceptance of token roles sustains the system; true change begins when scientists consistently refuse extractive invitations and practice the equity they demand.

Build sideways, not upward: Instead of climbing the existing pyramid, create south–south networks governed by regional scholars with local budgets and authorship.

Access ≠ change: Being invited to speak or consult is mistaken for progress; true equity requires co-design, co-leadership and shared resources, not symbolic inclusion.

Extractive ‘collaboration’ is the norm: Scientists from the Global South are asked for data, knowledge and legitimacy, yet receive little credit, co-authorship or decision-making authority.

Equity in science is preformative: Institutions prioritize optics (diversity panels, inclusive language, token invitations) while real power, funding and leadership stay with the same privileged groups.