Breaking Barriers: Diversity and Equity in Chemistry

Abstract

The field of chemistry has long been associated with the pursuit of objective facts and the uncovering of the building blocks of our universe. However, this view can often exclude the important role that diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) play in the advancement of scientific knowledge. By highlighting the contributions of minority chemists and integrating DEI principles into chemistry education, we can promote a more inclusive environment and foster greater understanding of the complex connections between chemistry and society.

In the first section, we provide a biography of each chemist, discussing their personal and professional lives and how their minority identity has interacted with their careers. The second section summarizes their research and accomplishments in the field of chemistry, emphasizing the importance of their work and the implications it has had on the broader scientific community. Finally, the third section explores how their research is related to the topics and contents taught in general chemistry, creating a connection between the material students learn in the classroom and the real-world applications of chemistry. In recent years, there has been a growing recognition of the need to incorporate DEI into STEM education, and chemistry is no exception. Despite this, there remains a scarcity of learning materials that directly introduce diversity and equality in chemistry education. As a result, students may view chemistry as an isolated discipline that is removed from the broader community.

This book aims to challenge that perception by introducing readers to minority chemists, their research, and the ways in which their work is related to topics taught in general chemistry courses. By exploring the lives and research of chemists who come from diverse backgrounds, we hope to showcase the importance of diverse perspectives in the advancement of the field and inspire a new generation of scientists who embrace and promote DEI in their own work. Each chapter of this book is divided into three main sections, highlighting the personal and professional lives of these extraordinary individuals and demonstrating the impact their work has had on the field.