MISSION STATEMENT
The March for Science champions robustly funded and publicly communicated science as a pillar of human freedom and prosperity. We unite as a diverse, nonpartisan group to call for science that upholds the common good, and for political leaders and policymakers to enact evidence-based policies in the public interest.
March with us on April 22, 2017
Science is such an integral part of our lives; we probably don’t notice it as often as we should. From the chemical reactions in the kitchen where we cook our breakfasts, to the fuel in the vehicles we drive to work, to the prescriptions we forgot to pick up in the afternoon, to the broadcasts we watch at night, science has made our lives longer and richer. Silencing the scientific process and community threatens our way of life – not just in our homes, but all over the globe.
Recognizing the support of science and the free and educated democracy in which it flourishes as a non-partisan issue, we are dedicating this march to three main principles.
Science plays a vital role in our lives and democracy. It’s a language that transcends borders, cultures, identities, and politics. Science is the best tool we have for understanding our world and democracy is the best method we have for coming together as people. Can you imagine telling a classroom full of curious children not to ask questions or share their ideas with each other? Only with free speech and free inquiry can we advance our understanding of our world, and develop policies that serve our community in its entirety.
The relationship between science and democracy is under threat. When politicians view science as a threat to their agenda, they put us all at risk. Previous generations remember with pride when our leaders led us into space, incredible medical advancements, and the promise of abundant energy. Science was their benchmark and progress followed. Now, there are politicians who not only refuse to acknowledge the same science that brought us to this point, but actively try to censor the scientific community. We cannot let this happen. We must send the message to our leaders that we care about facts, knowledge, and equal opportunities for all of us to participate in our advancement.
We’re banding together as scientists and community members to stand up for science. Science isn’t done just by people in white coats behind glass doors. It’s for the farmers who grow our food and raise our livestock, the teachers who lift our kids into education and wonderment, the construction workers who pour our concrete sidewalk and the cooks at our favorite diner who make our coffee. We are all doing science, every day, and we have a moral obligation to support both the method and the means. This march is a pledge to hold both our scientists and political leaders accountable to the highest standards of honesty, fairness and integrity.
Please join us. Be a part of the largest demonstration in support of science, ever. Send the message to our leaders, neighbors, and children that we are an engaged citizenry, we are united globally in our mission to protect science and democracy, and that we welcome dialog and engagement from all corners of our community. Our curiosity and will are boundless and hopeful; be a part of that.