by Jerika L.H.
In solidarity with the main event in Washington, DC, Sacramento will participate in The March for Science on April 22 in protest of recent measures which have defunded global warming research. Despite the contextual link to Donald Trump’s presidency, the event is said to be non-partisan and open to everyone, not only members of the scientific community. Organizers state that “The goals for the marches include advocating for open, inclusive, and accessible science, affirming scientific research as an essential part of a working democracy and, of course, supporting scientists.” Approximately 7,000 + people are expected to attend.
The event will begin promptly at 10 am with speeches and music at Southside Park on 7th and T. The actual march will begin at noon, as participants will head to the capitol steps, where a rally will be held. There will also be a “ Science Exploration Zone” which will feature interactive art and science activities, games, demonstrations, and crafts. Local organizations like the Powerhouse Science Center, Sacramento Splash, Chalk It Up, and NorCal Education Foundations, will be tabling. The event is sponsored by over 32 local organizations, and twelve speakers are set to engage the crowd, including many seasoned scientists, a Native American spiritual leader, and the Benicia city mayor. Musicians will include Chaotic Itilli, City of Trees, and a performance by Lauren Wakefield. The event is not to be confused with the National MS Society rally, which we be held at the capitol on the same day at 8am.
Parallel marches will take place around the world under the rallying cry to “Walk out of the lab and into the streets”, in hopes of persuading policy changes which affect the future of the planet, as well as the future of human development.
