March for Science Planned for Nation’s Capitol and San Diego on April 22

On April 22, thousands of science enthusiasts will participate in a March for Science to be held on the National Mall in Washington, D.C. Meanwhile, more than 400 sister marches will be held simultaneously in cities across six continents, including a march in San Diego.

Many UC San Diego students, researchers, faculty and staff members plan to participate in the marches in D.C. and San Diego. Robert Cooper, a postdoctoral research in the UC San Diego Division of Biological Sciences, is co-organizing the San Diego march, along with attorney Melissa Slawson and entrepreneur Alex Eyman. Diana Hereld, a researcher in the UC San Diego departments of Music and Psychology, is co-chairing marketing and social media for the local event.

Right from the start, these organizers want to emphasize that this is a march for science, not just a march of scientists. That means anyone who wants to show support is welcome. The goal of this family friendly event is to increase education, awareness, and trust in science and science-based policies.

“The Marches for Science are a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for public outreach and communication,” Cooper said. “As scientists, we have the opportunity to personally help demonstrate a positive, nonpartisan message by our presence and passion: that science is by and for everyone, regardless of background or ideology.”

If you’re already asking yourself what happens after the march, Cooper says that is just the beginning.

“Public trust and support of science is not a given—we have to continually renew it,” he said. “We hope encouraging positive, face-to-face conversations between scientists and the community will build trust and boost support for strong science policy over the long term. While we are focused on event planning right now, we encourage all supporters to connect on our website and Facebook group and keep your eyes out for future opportunities.”

Where: San Diego Civic Center Plaza, 1200 Third Ave, San Diego, CA 92101

When: April 22, 2017, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.