Objectivity is a myth that harms the practice and diversity of forensic science.
•Forensic science data are theory laden; pure scientific objectivity is a myth.•Upholding this myth marginalizes forensic scientists with subjective positionalities•Objectivity rhetoric is exclusive; ethical forensic science needs diverse perspectives.•Espousing objectivity prevents us from supporting the communities we serve.•Mitigated objectivity acknowledges implicit bias, constraining it via quality control.