LIHUE — The Hawaii Alliance for Science is hosting its second annual March for Science Saturday, in collaboration with a range of other groups.
“On April 14, supporters from across the world will unite again, to hold our elected officials responsible for enacting equitable, evidence-based policies that serve all communities and science, for the common good,” said Nancy Kanna, consultant, government affairs advocacy and community outreach specialist.
The event will be held Saturday, near the entrance of Lihue Airport, on the northwest corner of Ahukini Road and Kapule Highway, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
All are invited to participate in the non-partisan movement to celebrate science and the role it plays in everyday life.
Science is under attack, Kanna said, because the president believes climate change is a hoax and has pulled the United States out of the Paris climate accord.
“The federal government funds about half of all basic scientific research in the U.S., currently about $40 billion per year, versus philanthropy’s $2.3 billion per year,” she said. “The cold reality is that in the absence of federal support, American science would collapse.”
Science is valuable, she said, because it serves the greater good. “It puts us on the path toward eradicating disease, abolishing hunger, exploring the universe and ensuring environmental sustainability,” Kanna said.
About 300 people attended last year’s rally on Kauai, and Kanna hopes for more this year.
“It was a great experience to have people from all walks of life join together in a singular cause, to celebrate science,” she said.
Those who wish to attend Saturday’s event are encouraged to bring creative signs supporting their passion and love for science.
Info: www.marchforscience.com
