Growing up in Nogales, Arizona, Denise Moreno-Ramirez witnessed firsthand the unrecognized health crises in her community that were linked to historical contamination. This personal experience fueled her passion for environmental science research and inspired her to incorporate oral histories into her work.
As part of her PhD project titled “Voices Unheard,” Moreno-Ramirez gathered firsthand accounts from locals to complement scientific data with personal narratives, emphasizing the overlooked histories of communities impacted by pollution. This innovative approach highlights the importance of oral histories in scientific research, challenging the trend of impersonal data analysis.
By integrating community stories into environmental health research, Moreno-Ramirez brings a human perspective to scientific findings. This can inform policy decisions and address environmental injustices, as Chief of the Oral History Society, Rib Davis, aptly summarizes: “The answer isn’t just in science. It’s in people.”
Moreno-Ramirez’s emphasis on inclusivity in scientific research has the potential to drive positive change and advocate for informed policies that benefit those most affected by environmental injustices. Understanding the environmental health impacts on communities through personal stories creates a more inclusive approach to scientific research, paving the way for healthier futures for marginalized populations.