## When Science Takes a Stand: Raleigh Rallies Behind Facts in the Face of Fear From vaccines to climate change, science has become a battleground in the public discourse. But in Raleigh, North Carolina, a different kind of battle was waged on Saturday: a fight for truth, reason, and the very foundations of a healthy society. Amidst a growing wave of misinformation and political maneuvering, a community united, raising their voices in a powerful “Stand Up For Science” rally. This wasn’t just about protecting scientific progress; it was about safeguarding the very things that keep us alive. The Daily Tar Heel was there to capture the passion and determination of those who believe that evidence-based knowledge is essential to a thriving future. Join us as we delve into the heart of this important event, exploring the issues at stake and the voices demanding a return to reason.
Breaking Barriers
At the Stand Up For Science rally in Raleigh, Johnna Frierson, Associate Dean for DEI at Duke University School of Medicine, shared her personal story of overcoming obstacles as a Black woman in STEM. As the first person in her family to earn a PhD in microbiology and immunology, Frierson’s journey is a testament to the power of perseverance and determination.
With conviction, Frierson addressed the crowd, saying, “If someone wants to call me a ‘DEI hire,’ make sure the DEI stands for ‘definitely earned it.'” Her words resonated deeply with the audience, comprising students, librarians, teachers, and scientists from UNC, Duke, and N.C. State.
Threats to the Scientific Workforce
Proposed Policies and Executive Orders
The Trump administration’s proposed policies and executive orders have sparked widespread concern among the scientific community. Frierson highlighted the potential impact of these changes on STEM students, stating that they jeopardize the future of the scientific workforce.
Reducing Internship Opportunities
Frierson pointed out that the National Science Foundation is reducing internship training, and the National Institutes of Health is not holding their summer internship program this year. These changes, she emphasized, fail to provide an investment in the next generation of STEM students.
Investing in the Future of STEM
Frierson stressed the importance of supporting the next generation of scientists, citing the need for a diverse and inclusive scientific community. “There’s a lot of power in having a diverse community in so many aspects of just like how we think about science,” said Enya Dewars, co-leader of the Stand Up For Science protest. “But also how we then communicate science, and also who we’re inspiring to be scientists.”
A Conversation with Allison Riggs
A Candidate’s Values and Heart
Allison Riggs, a candidate for the N.C. Supreme Court, shared her aspirations for the court with Unionjournalism. In an interview, Riggs emphasized the importance of connecting with voters on a personal level, stating, “I want people to know my values and my heart, and I want to put out information that allows them to connect with me on a level beyond seeing me as a disembodied head floating above a black robe.”
Defining Justice
Riggs’ perspective on justice is centered around the idea of a level playing field. “At its core, I think justice means that we should interact on a level playing field as we move through life and our state and country, and recognizing that there ought to be rights for every wrong,” she explained.
Key Issues on the Court
Riggs discussed her stance on important issues, including accountability, and her commitment to upholding justice in the N.C. Supreme Court. Her Republican opponent is Jefferson Griffin.
Conclusion
Conclusion
The community’s unwavering dedication to science and critical thinking has led to the creation of the “Stand Up For Science” rally in Raleigh, a testament to the power of collective action in shaping public opinion. This gathering brought together individuals from diverse backgrounds, united by their fervor to protect the integrity of scientific research. Through impassioned speeches, personal stories, and collective chanting, the community voiced their opposition to efforts to suppress scientific inquiry and access to essential medical treatments. As the rally concluded, it became clear that the “Stand Up For Science” movement is more than just a vocal protest – it’s a catalyst for a broader societal shift, one that challenges the entrenched interests of those seeking to undermine scientific progress.
The significance of the “Stand Up For Science” movement lies in its role as a beacon for the defense of scientific freedom and the pursuit of knowledge. By standing firm against efforts to restrict access to scientific data, the community has highlighted the importance of transparency, accountability, and the public’s right to access information. As the scientific community continues to grapple with the implications of emerging technologies and the need for continued investment in research, it is imperative that we prioritize the principles of open communication, collaboration, and critical thinking. This rally serves as a poignant reminder that, when individuals come together to demand the truth, they can effect meaningful change.
As we look to the future, the “Stand Up For Science” movement serves as a timely reminder that our collective responsibility is to uphold the values of scientific inquiry and the pursuit of knowledge. It is a call to action, not just for the scientific community, but for all of us – to recognize the intrinsic value of truth, to value the contributions of scientists, and to champion the importance of science in shaping our world. As we move forward, let us continue to stand together, speaking out for the rights of scientists, and advocating for a future where science is accessible, inclusive, and free from intimidation. The time to act is now, and the future of science is in our hands.