Over a thousand individuals assembled at UC Berkeley’s Savio Steps in Sproul Plaza on March 7 to protest potential and ongoing cuts to federal research funding. This event was part of a nationwide day of action organized by research scientists.
Participants, holding signs supporting scientific research, listened to speakers criticizing the Trump administration for its attempts to diminish what they described as one of the most productive economic engines. The rally was among nearly three dozen “Stand up for Science” events across the country, protesting mass government firings, proposed cuts to USAID funding, and reductions in grants from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and the National Science Foundation (NSF).
Edward Miguel, one of the event organizers and a UC Berkeley Distinguished Professor of Economics, stated that this “dual assault on science and democracy is not aligned with our country’s founding vision.” He emphasized that scientific societies were created by the founding fathers to promote research essential to democracy.
Nobel laureate Jennifer Doudna expressed concern over attacks on NIH funding due to its role in training future biomedical researchers. She credited NIH support for her education and career advancements. Doudna urged attendees to advocate for continued federal support for science.
Negar Morshedian, an engineering student leading outreach for UC Berkeley’s Society of Women Engineers, spoke despite fears of retribution. She highlighted concerns about future generations facing fewer opportunities in research and education without advocacy efforts.
David J.X. González addressed climate change-related health issues, citing recent fires in Los Angeles as evidence of increasing disaster risks. He stressed that interference from federal government could have “real costs to real people.”
Emily Ozer encouraged collective action in supporting science and communities served by it.
The event concluded with a march through campus protesting proposed federal funding cuts for scientific research.
