The Stand Up for Science Rally in Seattle: A Call to Action for the Scientific Community
The Stand Up for Science rally in Seattle, held at the Mural Amphitheater at Seattle Center, was part of a nationwide movement to push back against the Trump administration’s efforts to undermine scientific activity across federal agencies. Physician-scientist Chetan Seshadri, who was initially scheduled to review grants for the National Institutes of Health (NIH), found himself speaking at the rally after his trip to Bethesda, Maryland, was postponed due to the cancellation of grant review panels. His personal story resonated deeply with the crowd, as another scientist in attendance yelled, “Mine too!” The rally brought together scientists, researchers, and supporters who sounded the alarm about the alarming actions taken by the administration, including firings, budget cuts, website purges, and attempts to eliminate diversity programs. Many of these actions are currently being challenged in court, highlighting the growing tension between the scientific community and the federal government.
Gov. Bob Ferguson: A Champion for Science and Accountability
Washington Governor Bob Ferguson addressed the crowd, emphasizing the importance of standing up for science in a society where such advocacy feels necessary. “It seems hard to believe that we live in a society today where a governor of a state needs to say to his constituents: I believe in science,” Ferguson remarked. He highlighted Washington’s legal efforts to challenge the Trump administration’s withholding of federal science funding and the firing of workers. Ferguson, who successfully won 55 of 58 lawsuits against the Trump administration during his time as state Attorney General, reassured the crowd that there are hard-working individuals in state government dedicated to addressing these issues. His presence at the rally underscored the critical role of state governments in protecting scientific integrity and holding the federal administration accountable.
The Personal and Professional Toll of Budget Cuts and Politicization
Chetan Seshadri’s experience was not unique. His non-refundable flight to Bethesda was wasted when his grant review panel was indefinitely postponed, a decision he believes was not about budget efficiency but about demoralizing the scientific workforce. “Why take such drastic and controversial steps to reduce the size of the federal government? Because the smaller it is, the easier it will be to control,” Seshadri said. He also expressed concerns about the Veteran’s Administration, where essential research contracts are being canceled abruptly, putting veterans’ health information at risk. Emails from upper management requesting resignations and unrealistic budget cuts further exacerbate the crisis. These actions are not just bureaucratic setbacks; they have real-world consequences for scientists, researchers, and the communities they serve.
The Broader Impact on Scientific Progress and Economic Growth
Speakers at the rally warned that the cuts to scientific funding are not isolated incidents but part of a larger effort to shrink scientific endeavors. Jim Olson, a pediatric oncologist and cancer researcher at Seattle Children’s Research Institute, urged the crowd to take action by reaching out to congressional leaders. “The cuts are coming one way or another,” he said. “We cannot let it happen.” Olson highlighted the societal impact of government investments in science, noting that federally-funded research enabled the clinical trials that drastically reduced childhood cancer death rates during his lifetime. He also shared his personal story of relying on government support for his education and training, which ultimately led to the creation of biotech startups generating over $200 million in investments. “There’s enormous societal impact each time the government invests in a young scientist,” he said.
The Next Generation of Scientists and the Future of Research
The rally also brought attention to the challenges facing the next generation of scientists. University of Washington scientist Harmit Malik attended the event with three aspiring scientists, one of whom is on the waitlist for the UW’s Molecular & Cellular Biology Graduate Program. Malik noted that the program is accepting fewer applicants due to budget uncertainty, a trend that could discourage talented individuals from pursuing careers in science. He encouraged the other two students to consider programs outside the U.S., a stark reminder of how the current political climate is driving young scientists away. Additionally, institutions like the UW School of Medicine are implementing hiring freezes and furloughing state employees, further compounding the crisis. Signs like “Don’t furlough scientists” and “Each $1 from NIH makes $2!!! Fund Science” underscored the urgent need for continued federal support.
A Rally for Science, a Rally for Democracy
The Stand Up for Science rally in Seattle was more than just a protest; it was a testament to the resilience and dedication of the scientific community. Speakers like oceanographer Brendan Carter, who was recently fired from NOAA, and UW senior scientist Meade Krosby, who emphasized the importance of climate science research, highlighted the broader implications of the Trump administration’s actions. The rally was organized by graduate students, postdoctoral fellows, and young scientists, including UW fire scientist Deborah Nemens, who expressed disgust at the mistreatment of civil servants and scientists. “I want to push back against the idea that civil servants aren’t dedicated to the country,” she said. The rally served as a powerful reminder that science is not just about discovery; it’s about democracy, accountability, and the future of society.
