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• Date of publication Jun 03, 2024 Category: Article

  Science communicators from marginalized backgrounds challenge STEM cultural norms to promote community belonging

  by Evelyn Valdez-Ward , Robert N. Ulrich , Nic Bennett , Esmeralda Martinez-Maldonado , Allison Mattheis , Kathleen K. Treseder , Bruno Takahashi , Sunshine Menezes

  In the U.S., navigating STEM with marginalized identities can affect scientists' communication practices. There is a critical need for science communication training that accounts for the historical oppressions, discriminations, and inequities of marginalized communities. In this paper we analyzed 712 participant responses from ReclaimingSTEM science communication workshops to understand how marginalized scientists' identities influence their science communication practices. We found that participants' experiences of exclusion and hostility in STEM spaces influenced their engagement in science communication. Scientists from marginalized backgrounds aim to change the culture of STEM through their communication efforts to promote a sense of belonging for their communities.

  Volume 23 • Issue 04 • 2024 • Special Issue: Science communication for social justice

• Date of publication Aug 16, 2022 Category: Article

  Making science communication inclusive: an exploratory study of choices, challenges and change mechanisms in the United States from an emerging movement

  by Sunshine Menezes , Kayon Murray-Johnson , Hollie Smith , Hannah Trautmann , Mehri Azizi

  This qualitative study explores perspectives of U.S.A.-based science communication researchers and practitioners who attended a symposium focused on advancing inclusive science communication (ISC). ISC is a growing global movement that aims to center equity, inclusion, and marginalized perspectives in science communication. Findings underscore the complexity of systemic barriers to ISC, the critical need for resource sharing and network building, and the importance of evaluation frameworks. The authors also highlight critical dialogue as a strategic tool that might help support intentional, reciprocal, and reflexive practices in science communication.

  Volume 21 • Issue 05 • 2022