March 31, 2017
Bulletin interne de l'Institut Pasteur
March for Science
The March for Science initiative was launched in the United States to champion the vital importance of science for society. In France, this initiative is supported by institutions in the field of higher education and research such as the CNRS, Inserm, INRA, Inria, the CEA, the IRD, the CPU, CURIF and a growing number of universities, as well as more than 20 learned societies, citizen associations and scientific outreach organizations such as Les Petits Débrouillards, the Cafés des Sciences, Pint of Science and La Paillasse.
The Institut Pasteur is one of the official supporters of this movement and is committed to advocating for "the independence of research and the freedom of science", in the words of President Christian Bréchot.
The national coordinating body for the March for Science has suggested several ways of contributing to the success of this initiative, starting with the vote on the membership of laboratories or research structures - securing the support of a large number of laboratories will have a major impact on the public and in the media. You can confirm your support by sending an email to the following address: labos@marchepourlessciences.fr
Another way of showing your support is to take part in the global March for Science that will be held on April 22, 2017 - Earth Day - when almost 300 marches will be taking place in over 20 countries.
In France, marches will be held in 15 cities, including Paris, Brest, Bordeaux, Marseille, Lille and Nice.
To find out more about the cities holding marches
"Marching for science on April 22 is a way of showing the public's support and commitment to the principle of research independence, supporting the development of knowledge in the face of preconceived ideas and prejudices, recognizing the need for a dialog between science and society, and demanding that scientific research should be factored into political decisions. This march will also be an opportunity to reflect together on the role of science in society and to launch initiatives to promote scientific culture." (Taken from the website marchepourlessciences.fr)