Diverse voices and perspectives are necessary to generate creative solutions to our most pressing challenges, including those that occur right in our own communities. However, scientists and engineers too often don’t engage in policymaking at the local level, including in city, county, and state governments. Local government provides a high-impact pathway for individuals with STEM backgrounds to shape policy in their community, but it can be difficult to know where to start. This session at the Society for the Advancement of Chicanos/Hispanics & Native Americans in Science (SACNAS) 2022 National Diversity in STEM (NDiSTEM) conference will feature scientists and engineers at a variety of career stages who have used their backgrounds to successfully engage on local issues in their communities. Participants will also have the opportunity to practice science communication skills as they take concrete next steps in developing their own local engagement plans. The session is a collaboration between ESAL and the Union of Concerned Scientists (UCS).

Location: Room 102C, Governor Pedro Roselló San Juan Convention Center, 100 Convention Blvd, San Juan, PR 00907