Thousands of scientists, advocates, and policy experts gathered in Boston from February 13-15 for the annual meeting of the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS). This event, themed "Science Shaping Tomorrow," marked the largest scientific assembly in the United States since the start of the second Trump administration. Amidst growing concerns about the administration's stance on scientific research, attendees expressed fear over their professional futures, public safety, and the global standing of American science.
The Union of Concerned Scientists is actively collecting signatures for an open letter to Congress, opposing actions by the Trump administration deemed harmful to scientific progress. The letter has already amassed over 50,000 signatures, highlighting widespread discontent within the scientific community. As many scientists consider leaving the U.S. due to the current political climate, there is an urgent call to action against the administration's moves, which include firings, grant freezes, and proposed budget cuts.
The Trump administration's actions have had significant impacts on major federal agencies such as the National Institutes of Health, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and the Environmental Protection Agency. These cuts have raised alarms, especially as the CDC's Epidemic Intelligence Service faces reductions amid a bird flu outbreak. Scientists at the meeting were urged to document and voice the health, environmental, and economic consequences of these political decisions.
In response to these challenges, AAAS is organizing a rally called Stand Up For Science on March 7 in Washington, D.C., and in at least 30 other cities nationwide. This initiative aims to galvanize support for scientific research and oppose detrimental policies.
During the meeting, a panel of individuals with recent government experience shared insights into the uncertainty surrounding future policies. Miles Arnett noted, "Right now, the prevailing sense is confusion," reflecting widespread apprehension about forthcoming changes. He further commented, "I went to a panel today with people who recently worked in government. No one knows what is coming."
Discussions also centered on public distrust in science, compounded by political interference. Joseph Francisco acknowledged the emotional toll on the scientific community:
"The unprecedented nature of the last few weeks have left many of us in the science and engineering community uncertain, anxious, and fearful… These feelings are valid." – Joseph Francisco
David Karpf advised that speaking out can mitigate personal risk, stating:
"The risk to individual scientists is relatively low if you stick to saying, 'This is what happened, and this is what was lost.'" – David Karpf
Gregg Gonsalves emphasized the importance of vocal resistance:
"Your silence is not going to protect you," – Gregg Gonsalves
Aidan Zlotak encouraged constructive dialogue at such gatherings:
"At a meeting of scientists, the best thing you can do is talk about what you can do," – Aidan Zlotak
Looking ahead, Matt Heid warned about the broad impact of current policies:
"Everything happening now will have immediate impact, but also medium- and long-term impacts that will hit every state," – Matt Heid
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