By Edwin Smith

University of Mississippi

In celebration of scientific investigation and its benefits, and in support for publicly-funded science, the Oxford community is invited to a March for Science this weekend.

Co-sponsored by the University of Mississippi Department of Physics and Astronomy and the Physics Graduate Students Association, the nonpartisan event begins at 10:30 a.m. Saturday (April 22) on the steps of the Lyceum.

Walkers will begin a 1-mile route through the Grove, head east on University Avenue, then north on South Lamar Boulevard. The march ends with a gathering on the Square.

“We value inclusion, diversity, equity and access to everybody,” said Marco Cavaglia, associate professor of physics and astronomy and one of the event’s organizers. “We aim for a diverse group of participants, including first-time marchers. Families with young children are welcome.”

This weekend’s event is one of many Marches for Science in cities and towns around the world. Each seeks to reaffirm core values of science.

“Science protects the health of our communities, the safety of our families, the education of our children, the foundation of our economy and jobs, and the future we all want to live in and preserve for coming generations,” said Luca Bombelli, chair and professor of physics and astronomy at Ole Miss.

“Science is a tool of discovery that allows us to constantly expand and revise our knowledge of the universe. In doing so, science serves the interests of all humans.”

March for Science supporters contend that science education teaches children and adults to think critically, ask questions and evaluate truth based on the weight of evidence.

“Science promotes diversity and inclusion and builds robust and resilient communities for the benefit of all people,” Bombelli said. “Science makes our democracy stronger.

“Please show your support for science as a vital feature of a working democracy, spurring innovation, critical thinking, increased understanding and better, healthier lives for all people.”

Follow the Oxford March for Science on Twitter @ScienceoxfordMS and Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/events/1699867663373864/. For assistance related to a disability, contact Marco Cavaglia at 662-915-7642 or cavaglia@olemiss.edu.