It is well-established that differing perspectives and experiences help to drive science and innovation. In fact, one of the purposes of the AURA award for the Rubin Observatory is to make the astronomical data widely accessible and engage the community in exploring our Universe. This session will enable a discussion of how, as a community, we can build a supportive platform that welcomes, acknowledges and accepts ideas and varied scientific approaches and methodologies from talented scientists from all backgrounds within our community. This session will include a combination of speakers giving suggestions of how they have supported their own communities and addressed challenges to making all viewpoints welcome, and facilitating discussion from the audience on similar topics. The goal of this session is for everyone to leave with a shared sense of purpose, understanding and knowledge on the current state of the world as experienced by others, as well as actionable ideas to improve participation of varied perspectives. 

This 90-minute session will devote approximately the first half to speakers who have expertise and/or personal experience in building and supporting these varied perspectives (including quantitative assessments when appropriate), and the second half to a facilitated discussion with the audience, inclusive of the possibility of splitting the audience into breakout groups depending on the size, interest and available time for such activity and discussion.

Dr. Dara Norman — Powers for Good

The start of 2025 has brought challenges for science funding and concerns about the independent pursuit of science research.  This new reality has been overwhelming, frustrating, and frightening… at least for me!  In this talk, I will suggest ways in which individuals can act to overcome feelings of powerlessness while exploring what it means to promote inclusivity in science.

Alysha Shugart — Shifting focus of positive impact

Navigating the stress, burnout, and mental toll that comes from living under existential threat is a reality of life for many in the Rubin community. While we navigate new challenges almost every hour, we need to refocus global societal work to smaller circles, so we can build strength in smaller groups in a manageable way. We will talk briefly about ideas to focus on what we can control, and how to shift our focus from quantitative impacts to qualitative ones. We will discuss tips for driving positive impact while supporting our colleagues (and ourselves) as we navigate this increasingly hostile world.

Dr. Megan Pickett — Amplifying Queer Voices in Astronomy

In this presentation, I will speak to my own experiences as an out trans woman in academia in general and in the astronomical community in particular, and what I’ve learned as a trans rights activists.  Trans, non-binary, and gender expansive people face difficult headwinds, but individually and as a community have shown courage and resilience.  Effective allyship that amplifies our voices without stepping on them is a necessary part of successfully welcoming and celebrating everyone in the astronomical community.