By: Karolina Szenkiel
Biotech students at the March for Science in NYC.
Science: it’s a universally beneficial and crucial endeavor for any nation hoping to advance and make its way in the world. Whether scientists are creating medications for diseases, monitoring climate change, or creating the technology powers our smartphones, everyone benefits from the growing pool of knowledge that science gives us. That’s why many Americans found themselves shocked and confused when President Trump made moves to discredit climate science and cut research funding earlier in 2017. Inspired by the Women’s March in late January, science enthusiasts began to organize and assemble a similar march to take place in Washington D.C. to protest for science backed policy. On April 22nd, Earth Day, the March for Science took place along with 600 other sister marches globally, amassing hundreds of thousands of protesters walking in the name of science. Some of these were Biotech students. Given the fact that the average Biotech student will have finished six different science courses by the end of sophomore year, it’s no surprise that BTHS students flocked to march in the name of science. Through their words, it is clear to see that Biotech students care deeply about the role of science in politics.
Sophomore Kelli Valentini went to the March for Science in New York City hoping to show her support for the prevention of climate change. Although she does not consider herself the most politically active person, she says she felt compelled to join because, “It is imperative to support science, especially in the wake of recent efforts by the Trump Administration to ignore facts and instead favor short-term profit regarding issues like climate change.” She strongly believes that the government should fund scientific research as well. “The discoveries that are absolutely crucial to the betterment of society and our world as a whole would never occur without funded research. These advancements can save lives and money in the long run, with improvements in areas like medicine, energy efficiency, agriculture, and hundreds of other essential fields we typically don’t even consider.”
Sophomore Christina Noel was also proud to be at the March for Science along with other Biotech students in New York City. “I'm so glad that I was able to be a part of this, and it was great to see so many people involved and passionate about science!”
Social media was buzzing with photos from the march too. Photos of colorful, creative, and sometimes comical signs filled people’s dashboards and feeds. “There was a big group of kids marching and they held signs that were cut into flowers and penguins, and they were all following an adult holding this huge butterfly, which I thought was adorable,” said Christina. Kelli sported her own punny sign, which read “Don’t mess with our field,” along with an illustration of electrical fields, which Biotech students learn about in physics sophomore year.
“The March for Science is a celebration of science. It’s not only about scientists and politicians; it is about the very real role that science plays in each of our lives and the need to respect and encourage research that gives us insight into the world,” proclaims the March for Science website. Although the Trump Administration has yet to acknowledge the real dangers of scientifically proven climate change, one thing’s for sure: Biotech students will continue to champion science and fight for an administration that acknowledges climate change and other environmental issues.
Sophomore Kelli Valentini holds her sign at the March for Science in NYC.