The field of environmental science and the movements within have traditionally excluded non-white and marginalized communities, resulting in underrepresentation and lowered engagement of these groups within and outside of academia. The systemic economic and cultural barriers in academia and our larger society inhibit racially ethnic and gender-diverse students from fully participating and authentically engaging in the sciences. Building meaningful connections to the field of environmental sciences and sustainability requires integrated approaches that extend “beyond the walls” to encourage, inspire, and motivate students to take an interest in studying and pursuing careers in ecology and the earth sciences. In a conversation centered around critical race theory and intersectionality, four scientists and educators discuss the challenges and rewards of helping students navigate science in academia. They also examine how their advocacy for diversity, equity, inclusion, and justice translates into actionable approaches that deconstruct the barriers that have prevented equal representation and empowerment of marginalized groups in the environmental sciences. [link to publication]