American Researchers Rally Against Science Funding Cuts– What’s Next for Research?

A protestor holding a sign at the protest in Washington Square Park, New York City. (image Credits: Charly/Triballeua/AFP/Getty)

On March 7, thousands of protestors from more than 30 cities across the United States and Europe gathered at the Lincoln Memorial to stand up for research and science. This demonstration was ignited by President Donald Trump’s initiative, which sought to cut research funding and cut down on the US scientific workforce.

In the crowds, many of the posters and boards held by researchers and supporters of science read:  “Science Saves Lives,” “In Science We Trust” and “Facts Over Fear.” These demonstrations defy the Trump administration’s claim that science research funding is going towards pointless, or futile causes.

“When you defend science, you are defending the health and welfare of the American people,” said American attorney and politician, Van Hollen.Nye, commonly referred to as

“Bill Nye the Science Guy,” was also seen at the rally.

Nye urged lawmakers to “stand up for science” and bashed the Trump administration’s attempts to undermine the impact of climate change. Additionally, he stated that laws and safeguards should be put in place to prevent political interference with research, allowing scientists to present their research freely.  

“I’ve been waiting for someone to do something,” said global-health metrics researcher Abraham Flaxman. “It's dawned on me [that] nobody is coming to save us. We are going to have to save ourselves.”

Flaxman’s perspective, echoed by many at the rally, emphasizes that without researchers and people who are willing to stand up for what they believe is just, science will be unable to thrive.