Recode Decode: Trash in space, diversity in STEM and artificial meat at TED 2019

Inclusive Advocacy

Danielle Lee shares her journey into science, emphasizing the importance of inclusive science advocacy. She highlights the need to bring marginalized voices to the forefront, making room at the table for those often overlooked, such as urban and African American communities 1. Danielle's vision is to create a perception of normality for young people from diverse backgrounds, encouraging them to embrace their unique identities in scientific fields 2.

I want to see other copies of me... young people who come from the hood, who come from urban areas, who come from the south, who come from working class families.

--- Danielle Lee

Her advocacy is driven by a desire to replace herself with more diverse voices in science, challenging the notion of a pipeline problem and emphasizing the need for welcoming environments.

   

Cultural Communication

Danielle employs culturally relevant methods, like hip hop, to make science more accessible to diverse audiences. She uses her background and interests to frame scientific concepts in a relatable way, aiming to reach those traditionally overlooked by mainstream science communication 3. Her blog, "Southern Playalistic Evolution Music," creatively combines evolutionary science with hip hop, reflecting her unique approach to science outreach 4.

My big idea is using culturally relevant context to communicate science to audiences who have been traditionally overlooked by popular science outreach and media.

--- Danielle Lee

Danielle's efforts extend to her teaching and speaking engagements, where she continues to engage students and audiences with her innovative methods 5.