Insights from the #InclusiveSciComm movement

Background/Question/Methods

Despite the vast abundance of scientific information present in the world today, access to this information and opportunities for meaningful public engagement in the process and outcomes of science are inequitably distributed. Even as interest in science communication has grown, marginalized communities continue to be excluded and undervalued in these efforts. Thus, a shift in focus towards inclusion and equity within the science communication movement is needed. Thus, a shift in focus towards inclusion and equity within the science communication movement is needed. To that end, the Inclusive SciComm (ISC) Symposium was developed by the Metcalf Institute at the University of Rhode Island in 2019 to convene practitioners, scholars, and educators working across various disciplines, sectors, methods, settings, and topics to discuss practical approaches for advancing inclusive approaches to SciComm and public engagement.

Results/Conclusions

This talk will highlight important elements in planning, implementing, and evaluating the 3rd annual ISC Symposium and attendees will leave with practical takeaways that can be applied across various STEM efforts that aim to engage broad and diverse audiences. Inclusive and equitable science engagement is a crucial yet underutilized tool for empowerment; therefore, in order for SciComm to be just and serve the needs of all, a change has to come.