Science And Environmental Activists March On Washington

In the latest of many politically-charged protests, science activists will gather in cities around the world this weekend to support scientific research. The main protest will hit Washington, and follows a string of rallies at the nation's capitol, including April 15's Tax March and the Women's March in January. The March for Science – as its officially known – is "a celebration of science," according to the campaign's website.

"It's not only about scientists and politicians," the website states. "It is about the very real role that science plays in each of our lives and the need to respect and encourage research that gives us insight into the world."

Organizers expect more than 50,000 people to attend the march in Washington, according to the _story.html?utmterm=.3ee6da7983f9'>Washington Post,_ based on the requested number of permits to protest. The event kicks off at the Washington Monument with a series of teach-ins at 9 a.m. Saturday. After a four-hour rally program at the event's main stage, attendees will descend on the U.S. Capitol at 2 p.m. The rally features a handful of notable science professionals, including Bill Nye the Science Guy.

"We unite as a diverse, nonpartisan group to call for science that upholds the common good and for political leaders and policy makers to enact evidence based policies in the public interest," the website says.

Outside of the nation's capitol, there are more than 600 satellite marches expected around the world.