She set out to become a clinical psychologist. Now she’s leading a US movement to save science
Summary
Colette Delawalla, a clinical psychology doctoral student, started the Stand Up for Science movement in response to the Trump administration's cuts to medical and scientific research and restrictions on government scientists. The movement organized protests across the US and grew into a larger effort to defend science funding and research freedom.Key Facts
- The Trump administration cut $4 billion from medical and scientific research early in its second term.
- Government scientists were temporarily banned from speaking at conferences or publicly.
- The National Institutes of Health removed grants that conflicted with orders on “gender ideology” and “diversity”.
- Colette Delawalla posted on social media planning a protest that quickly gained attention and sparked rallies in over 30 cities.
- Stand Up for Science began without support from major scientific groups but grew to over 2,000 volunteers and 22 paid staff.
- After initial protests, continued challenges included funding cuts and volunteer burnout.
- Delawalla faced criticism from some scientists over her approach and language, including some experiences of sexism within the scientific community.
- The movement’s goal has been to protect scientific research freedom and funding under political pressure.
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