Eight students and six faculty members traveled to Washington, D.C., where they joined thousands from across the country for the March for Science on Earth Day. Other students and faculty attended local satellite marches in Miami and Fort Lauderdale.
The goal of the March was to “unite as a diverse, nonpartisan group to call for science that upholds the common good, and for political leaders and policy makers to enact evidence based policies in the public interest.”
“It was heartening to see such a diverse group of people of all ages, ethnicities and opinions standing up together to support these values. It was wonderful that so many of our students were motivated to attend,” said Dr. Tamara Hamilton, associate professor of chemistry in Barry’s Department of Physical Sciences. It shows that they really understand their responsibility as professional scientists to put Barry’s mission into practice, or as it is expressed in one of the core principles of the march, ‘science that serves the common good.’
The long-term goals of the movement don’t end with the march, and many priorities of the movement specifically link the pursuit of science to Barry’s Core Commitments of knowledge and truth, inclusive community, social justice and collaborative service. It is an ideal way for science students to become informed about and involved in civic action.
“Science and facts doesn’t take sides — it’s not Democrat or Republican — and it’s important for people to realize that,” said Barry student Diana Cordero. “The March for Science helped to raise awareness to the cause put forth by the scientific community. It was also a way to show this administration that scientists won’t back down, and we will always fight for the truth.”
