From the world of soil microbes, to using science for social justice

As a formerly undocumented Latina, my world was turned upside down when Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals was rescinded in 2017. My focus shifted from studying the impact of drought on the interactions between plants and soil microbes, to fighting for my right to stay in this country. The injustices and retaliation I faced in STEM during that time led me to create a space where marginalized scientists could find community and feel supported. In this talk I share my experiences and how it mobilized me to train other scientists to fight for social justice using science communication and policy.