Breaking Barriers with Data: LGBTQ+ Stories Made Visible by Gayta Science
Data science possesses the powerful capability of shedding light on the LGBTQ+ community, as demonstrated by Gayta Science, a project that aims to bring awareness to LGBTQ+ topics through data science and analytics.
Data Scientist and Gayta Science founder, Kelsey Campbell, outlined the mission of Gayta Science in a recent discussion with the University of Virginia’s LGBTQ Center.
Gayta Science does not use data as a tool to rigidly define the LGBTQ+ community. Rather, it embraces the emotional spectrum of lived LGBTQ+ experiences – joy, anguish, anger, and hope – all made visible through the striking medium of data visualization.
Campbell believes that people should not have to be highly technical in order to understand data insights.
“It is important to me that we are building things and creating content that truly serves us – either directly or in an educational way for those outside of the community,” they said.
The world that data activism envisions for oppressed communities is brought to life by individuals who are inspired to take action in their own backyards.
Students at UVA’s School of Data Science who are interested in helping marginalized communities through their field of study can begin by assisting local organizations in need of aid.
“Having conversations to understand their needs is what would actually be helpful,” Campbell mentioned.
“Even if it feels like you are just behind a screen coding, there is usually a human component somewhere down the line, which should shape every decision you make.”
It is through data that the LGBTQ+ community can begin to process grief, celebrate their identities through song lyrics, and understand who they are.
