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Marching for Science

April 22 marked the first-ever global March for Science.  In a movement started in Washington, was the catalyst for over 600 rallies in cities around the world.  Hundreds of thousands of scientists came together, to voice and demonstrate support for science and the fundamental role it plays in serving and improving society.  Organisers said it was a celebration of science and a call to support and safeguard the scientific community.

Babraham researchers joined the rally in London. In the following blog, PhD researcher from the Reik Lab, Julia Spindel, shares her experience of the event:
 
Around the world, scientists donned their lab coats for a big Earth Day celebration this year. In London, thousands of us marched from the Science Museum, past the Royal Society, and on to Parliament Square. Researchers and science supporters flocked from all over the south of England, including many from Cambridge, and they gathered in the sun for speeches from scientists, comedians, broadcasters and writers alike at the end of the march. I attended with both colleagues and friends from Cambridge, all keen to voice our support for science and especially the promotion of diversity in science.
 
Lively chants and signs called for improved climate change action, continued integration in EU science after Brexit, continued science funding, evidence-based policy, and improved diversity in science. Many focused on President Trump, his plans for huge cuts to biomedical research or his claim that climate change is a “hoax” alongside slashing of environmental regulation and science funding. Other banners expressed concern about opinions closer to home; quoting Michael Gove who famously claimed “People in this country have had enough of experts”.
 
The atmosphere at the march was very positive and it was a great feeling to be joining so many like-minded people celebrating and taking part in a demonstration for science. It was empowering to be part of an event that hopefully will have a positive impact upon both society and governmental policy. This celebration of science and the fight for the support of research and evidence-based policy doesn’t end here. Keep talking about it and check the website for further events.
 
 
To find out more or to find out how you can get involved, please speak to Linden Fradet in the KEC team.