Science, research, and innovation are powerful engines of societal progress, but their benefits are often unevenly distributed. Marginalized communities, particularly those historically excluded from these fields, may miss out on the advantages of scientific advancements. To build a more equitable and just future, we must rethink how we communicate scientific findings. Inclusive science communication can provide a transformative process that requires engaging diverse voices, addressing systemic inequities, and co-creating knowledge with communities.
Below are a few tips on how to use inclusive communication to make sure that science works for everyone.
Embedding equity in communication frameworks
Inclusive science communication starts with framing. Equity framing emphasizes the need to acknowledge and address societal inequities in scientific discourse, ensuring that all communities, especially marginalized ones, are considered (Polk & Diver, 2020). By understanding that the structures shaping science are often dominated by Eurocentric, masculine, and affluent norms (Valdez-Ward et al., 2023), we can create communication strategies that challenge these paradigms and reflect the diversity of experiences and perspectives in society.
For example, environmental justice efforts highlight how marginalized communities bear the brunt of environmental degradation. Scientists can reframe environmental research to focus on these impacts and work with affected communities to develop more effective solutions (Polk & Diver, 2020).
Recognizing positionality and engaging in co-creation
Positionality — understanding how one’s social identity influences their perspective — is crucial for inclusive communication (Polk & Diver, 2020). Researchers need to be aware of how their own backgrounds shape the knowledge they produce and how they communicate it. This awareness helps dismantle dominant narratives that may exclude certain communities.
Moreover, inclusive science communication is a process of co-creation rather than top-down dissemination (Smith et al., 2020). Engaging communities in the research process not only democratizes knowledge production but also ensures that the findings are relevant and accessible to those who stand to benefit the most. Co-creation goes beyond participation, involving communities in defining the research agenda, conducting the research, and interpreting the results (Smith et al., 2020).
Adopting healing-centered approaches to communication
A healing-centered counterspace model, such as the one used in the ReclaimingSTEM initiative, highlights the importance of creating safe and inclusive spaces for marginalized scientists and communities to engage in science communication (Valdez-Ward et al., 2023). This model challenges dominant norms in STEM fields and expands the definition of science communication to include diverse experiences, knowledge systems, and ways of knowing. By centering the needs and experiences of marginalized individuals, such approaches foster a more inclusive and transformative science communication landscape (Valdez-Ward et al., 2023).
Healing-centered practices involve addressing the trauma and marginalization faced by underrepresented groups in STEM and ensuring that science communication spaces are supportive and empowering (Valdez-Ward et al., 2023).
Overcoming structural barriers to inclusive communication
Structural barriers to inclusive science communication are well-documented, including lack of funding, limited access to platforms, and institutional biases (Smith et al., 2020; Valdez-Ward et al., 2023). To overcome these barriers, it’s important to develop intentional strategies that prioritize inclusion. For example, creating networks of inclusive science communicators can help share resources, best practices, and ideas for overcoming these challenges (Valdez-Ward et al., 2023).
Additionally, adopting policies that elevate diverse voices within scientific institutions and communication spaces can shift the power dynamics that often exclude marginalized groups. Leadership positions in science communication should reflect the diversity of society, ensuring that decision-making processes are more equitable (Valdez-Ward et al., 2023).
Diversifying representation and communication formats
Representation matters deeply in science communication. When diverse voices are featured—whether as researchers, communicators, or participants—it signals that science belongs to everyone. Diverse representation also helps break down stereotypes about who “belongs” in scientific fields (Valdez-Ward et al., 2023).
Beyond representation, it’s important to communicate in a variety of formats that make science accessible to different audiences. This includes using visuals, videos, social media, and community-based workshops that can engage non-expert audiences and underrepresented communities (Polk & Diver, 2020). Multi-modal communication ensures that science reaches everyone, not just those with access to academic publications or technical platforms.
Creating ethical, inclusive, and engaged research practices
Ethical considerations are at the core of inclusive science communication. It’s crucial to ensure that communities involved in research are treated with respect and that the research outcomes benefit them (Smith et al., 2020; Valdez-Ward et al., 2023). This involves transparency in data collection, consent, and how research findings are used.
Ethics also require that science communicators actively engage with the communities they study, not merely as subjects but as partners in the research process. Such practices foster trust, mutual learning, and a deeper understanding of the societal impact of scientific research (Smith et al., 2020).
In other words
Inclusive communication in science, research, and innovation is more than a trend—it’s an imperative for equity, justice, and progress. By embedding equity into our frameworks, recognizing the importance of positionality, and engaging in co-creation with communities, we can break down the barriers that have historically excluded marginalized voices from the scientific conversation. Embracing diverse representation, ethical practices, and healing-centered approaches to communication ensures that science truly serves everyone.
What can you do differently tomorrow?
- Reflect on your positionality: Acknowledge how your background shapes your communication and research approach.
- Create co-creative spaces: Involve communities in every step of your research, from design to dissemination.
- Adopt healing-centered practices: Foster safe, supportive environments for marginalized communities in science communication.
- Challenge structural barriers: Work within your institution to advocate for inclusive policies and funding for underrepresented groups.#
References
- Canfield, K. N., Menezes, S., Matsuda, S. B., Moore, A., Mosley Austin, A. N., Dewsbury, B. M., … & Taylor, C. (2020). Science communication demands a critical approach that centers inclusion, equity, and intersectionality. Frontiers in Communication, 5, 2.
- Dawson, E. (2014). Reframing social exclusion from science communication: Moving away from “barriers” toward a more complex perspective. Journal of Science Communication, 13(2).
Fox, J., et al. (2021). Open science, closed doors? Countering marginalization through an agenda for ethical, inclusive research in communication. Journal of Communication, 71(5), 764-784. - Massarani, L., & Merzagora, M. (2014). Socially inclusive science communication. Journal of Science Communication, 13(2).
- Medin, D., & Bang, M. (2014). Who’s asking?: Native science, Western science, and science education. MIT Press.
- Polk, E., & Diver, S. (2020). Situating the scientist: Creating inclusive science communication through equity framing and environmental justice. Frontiers in Communication.
- Smith, H., Menezes, S., Canfield, K., Guldin, R., Morgoch, M., & McDuffie, K. (2020). Moving toward inclusion: Participant responses to the inclusive SciComm symposium. Frontiers in Communication.
- Valdez-Ward, E., Ulrich, R. N., Bennett, N., Cat, L. A., Marcus, T., Menezes, S., Mattheis, A. H., & Treseder, K. K. (2023). ReclaimingSTEM: A healing-centered counterspace model for inclusive science communication and policy training. Frontiers in Communication.
