Diversity Series hosts award-winning scholar of Indigenous science

Yakima Valley College’s 2023 Diversity Series, in conjunction with the Climate and Environment student club and the Associated Students of Yakima Valley College (ASYVC), will host noted Indigenous scientist and community advocate Jessica Hernandez, PhD for an author presentation in April. Hernandez will share  key themes and research for her award-winning book, “Fresh Banana Leaves: Healing Indigenous Landscapes through Indigenous Science.”

Hernandez will talk about her book, followed by an audience Q&A,  on Thursday, April 27 from 2:30-4 p.m. in the Deccio Higher Education Center, Building #8, Parker Room and via Zoom.

Leading up to Hernandez’s campus visit, YVC will host book discussions on Wednesday, April 5, and from 2:30-3:30 p.m. in Hopf Union (HUB), Building #9, MLK Room and via Zoom and Wednesday, April 19, from 2:30-3:30 p.m. in the MLK Room and via Zoom. Discussions will be led by members the Climate and Environment club. YVC students can obtain a free copy of Hernandez’s book at the ASYVC office on the Yakima or Grandview campus. Community members can order a copy of the book online.

Hernandez (Binnizá & Maya Ch’orti’) is a transnational Indigenous scholar, scientist and community advocate based in the Pacific Northwest. She has an interdisciplinary academic background ranging from marine sciences to environmental physics. She is also an advocate for climate, energy and environmental justice.

She is currently in the process of writing a second book, “Growing Papaya Trees: Nurturing Indigenous Roots of Climate Displacement & Justice.” Hernandez has been named by Forbes as one of the 100 most powerful and influential women of Central America.

Since 2005 Yakima Valley College has partnered with several area organizations to host events and lectures through its annual Diversity Series. The events provide YVC the opportunity to bring diverse perspectives to everyday topics and push the boundaries of the term beyond race, gender, social class and sexuality.

For more information contact Instructor Suki Smaglik at ssmaglik@yvcc.edu.