In a powerful display of unity and determination, thousands of people gathered in Washington, D.C. and across the U.S. to support and celebrate science at the Stand Up for Science rally.
In Washington, D.C., and across the U.S, people turned out to support and celebrate science. The Stand Up for Science rally was a powerful display of unity and determination among scientists, researchers, doctors, teachers, and more.
Standing up for science is crucial in today's world, where misinformation and skepticism towards scientific evidence are on the rise.
It involves advocating for evidence-based policies, promoting critical thinking, and supporting scientists in their work.
According to a Pew Research Center survey, 72% of Americans believe that 'science has a positive impact on society.'
However, only 27% of adults in the US have a basic understanding of science.
By standing up for science, individuals can help bridge this knowledge gap and promote a culture of scientific literacy.
Personal Connections to Science
For many attendees, the rally was not just about policy changes or federal funding; it was personal. Take Meghan French, a high school teacher from Virginia, who held a poster that read ‘this biology teacher’s life was saved by science.’ She’s a breast cancer survivor who credits science for her recovery. Her message echoed by other protesters, including Isabel Wilder, a graduate student at the University of Maryland in College Park.
A Rally for Science
The rally on the National Mall was one of 32 official Stand Up for Science events around the country. From San Francisco to Denver to Boston, protesters converged at parks, city halls, state capitols and more to defend science. The rallies come in response to recent actions by the Trump administration; just six weeks into his new term, the U.S. scientific community is roiling in fear and uncertainty.
A Call to Action
The rally organizers’ policy goals include securing and expanding federal research funding, depoliticizing science, and defending diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility. Colette Delawalla, a clinical psychology Ph.D. candidate at Emory University in Atlanta, and the lead organizer of Stand Up For Science, says ‘it’s the Big Bang kickoff of us saving American science as an institution.’ The rally follows in the footsteps of a massive pro-science event that took place in Washington, D.C., and around the world nearly eight years ago.
Celebrating Science
While protesters may be fighting for policy changes today, Delawalla also hopes that the rally gave people a chance to celebrate science — and fuel their curiosity. She envisions protesters striking up interesting conversations, perhaps even leading to research collaborations. Even a single day’s outpouring of support for science felt hopeful for Randy Kimble, a retired astrophysicist who also attended the March for Science in 2017.
Science celebrations take place worldwide, promoting scientific knowledge and innovation.
Events like Science Olympiads, science fairs, and festivals attract millions of participants annually.
These events showcase experiments, demonstrations, and interactive exhibits, making complex concepts accessible to people of all ages.
According to a UNESCO report, over 70% of countries have national or regional science days, emphasizing the importance of scientific literacy in society.
The Future of Science
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