Here are the sights and sounds from the Stand Up for Science rally in Boston on March 7, 2025

BOSTON — On March 7, 2025, Stand Up for Science rallies took place in Washington DC and 31 other cities. I attended the rally in Boston and recorded the sounds from the rally as attendees answered my questions about why they were standing up for science. Many expressed that science is a lifelong passion and the driving force behind medical breakthroughs, environmental protection, and overall societal progress. They warned that funding cuts and new policy decisions threaten to undo decades of advancement by stripping away critical scientific tools and insights.

Beyond voicing concerns, rally-goers called for proactive civic engagement. They urged individuals to contact their representatives, attend town halls, and foster community collaboration to ensure that science remains a public good. The message was clear: protecting scientific research and innovation is essential for securing a better and more informed future for everyone.

What they said when asked why they are standing up science:

“Science has been my favorite thing my whole life. I became interested in science when I was very young, and now I’m working in a research lab—it’s the best thing I’ve ever done. Because of some questionable decisions, all this progress and the amazing work happening around the world is under threat. It’s not just my future that’s at stake; it’s all of our future. My sign says, ‘Science is so effective, you forgot what a world without it looks like.’ Without science, society would fall into utter chaos and devastation.”

“I’m here because my sign says ‘Federally funded science saves lives.’ This is about disease research, vaccines, treatments for rare diseases, and cancer therapies. Science benefits everyone, so cutting funding is devastating, and without it, progress stops.”

“I came to the last March for Science and it was really fun and exciting, so I knew I had to be here again. I got into research when my mom had cancer, and even though scientists often don’t get paid a lot, we put our heart and soul into our work. It’s important and it deserves proper funding.”

“We’re here because we are very concerned about the future of science in the U.S. The cuts to federal agencies affect our collaborators and friends with unique expertise. Proposed budget cuts to agencies like the NSF, NOAA, the US Forest Service, the USDA, the NIH, and others are a serious threat. We want our message to reach politicians so that they stop the chaos in government.”

“I’m a PhD student studying climate change and marine science, and I believe science is super important. With our warming climate and the challenges of climate change, we must not forget the importance of scientific research.”

“I’m a researcher and former science teacher, and I support continued funding for research across all disciplines. My sign directs you to a URL with a template letter and contact information to reach your congressperson. While rallies can sometimes feel like not enough, it’s important to follow up by calling on your representatives to ensure your voice is heard.”

“I’m a PhD student and a science communicator. I’m here to get people excited to talk about and stand up for science. It’s important for everyone—not just in the U.S., but worldwide. Science has given us medical advances, longer life spans, and new insights into our oceans, among many other benefits. We need to stop this attack on science.”

“I hope people will call their representatives, attend local town halls, build community, and educate their friends and family. Some representatives, regardless of their political party, aren’t taking the necessary steps to protect our rights as citizens and scientists. We must keep pushing until they listen.”

“It’s easy to forget that scientists are human too—we have hobbies, friends, and loved ones. It’s important to remember that we’re all people. Especially in the winter, it’s easy to stay inside, but showing up for your community—whether it’s fellow scientists or other groups—is empowering. I’m excited to see so many scientists and students coming together, hoping for a brighter future for our field.”

Shannon Geary

I am a producer for a science radio show and podcast, with over three years of experience in audio production and science journalism. I have a background in biochemistry, journalism, and science communication.