Science lovers invited to march on Earth Day

If you’re a science lover or supporter, prepare for a parade.

Anyone who believes science plays an essential role in society is invited to participate in the Calgary March for Science on Saturday, April 22 at 1 p.m., beginning at Olympic Plaza.

Officials say science, scientists, and evidence-based policy making are under attack, and a lot of politicians are viewing science as a threat to their agenda rather than a useful tool they could utilize.

“The march is essentially an event to express support for scientific liberty, evidence-based policy and diversity in STEM fields,” said Chelsa Dornian, lead event organizer for Calgary. “It doesn’t matter what side of the political spectrum you fall on because we all benefit from science, so we should all care about it.”

Dornian said they hope the march will help encourage Calgarians to become more involved in the political system, not just locally, but on a more global scale too.

“Partially, this is about standing in solidarity with scientists and researchers in the United States who are currently being gagged and defunded by the government,” said Dornian. “What’s happening in the United States will have impacts on Canada.”

She said the march is also in place to remind people major decisions in society need to be based on scientific theories, not conspiracy theories or personal beliefs.

The majority of march participants aren’t scientists, but people who believe science plays a fundamental role in democracy.

To participate in the march, or to donate, visit www.marchforscience.com