The March 2021 edition of the Shared Waters newsletter by the Permanent Forum of Binational Waters stands out as a powerful example of how communication can foster visibility and equity in science. In honor of National Women’s History Month, this issue highlights the leadership of women working in water science and policy along the U.S.-Mexico border, creating a vibrant mosaic of voices that positions each featured expert as a woman in the science book of cross-border water knowledge.
Among the most compelling features is the launch of the Women in Science Interview series, hosted by Laura Garza. The inaugural conversation with Dr. Rosario Sánchez, director of the Forum, offers both personal and professional insights into what it means to lead as a woman in cross-border water governance. These interviews extend beyond credentials, delving into challenges, motivations, and the pursuit of equity in a field historically dominated by men.
The newsletter also presents a sobering global context: women account for less than 30% of scientific researchers. In response, the Forum’s Women in Science initiative encourages visibility, mentorship, and supportive networks across its 180 members and 60 binational institutions. Quotes from Elia Tapia, Gabriela Rendón, and Laura Garza illustrate a shared commitment to reimagining scientific spaces through collaboration and intentional inclusivity.
This March 2021 issue also featured the Coffee Break event Exploring the RÃo Conchos, where experts discussed life and binational collaboration around one of the region’s most important rivers. The conversation underscored the critical need for cooperation, respect for local knowledge, and transparent dialogue in managing shared waters.
Together, the stories and events showcased in this edition form more than a newsletter—they construct a narrative of resilience and leadership. In many ways, it becomes a community-driven woman in science book, one that uplifts border-region voices and redefines who leads water science today.
By weaving technical expertise with personal testimony, Binational Waters builds a future where scientific progress flows from inclusion, diversity, and shared experience.
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