“If people stand up, that will make change,” Nathan Frischkorn, a senior environmental science and sociology major said. “Doing nothing isn’t enough.”

Frischkorn was one of the many NMU students and community members who collaborated on organizing the second annual March for Science in Marquette on Saturday, April 14. The goal of the event was to promote activism and advocate for scientific policy, as well as encourage community members to vote for politicians who recognize the values of science in the 2018 election, Frischkorn said.

Participants gathered at the Marquette Commons after marching from the Berry Events Center. The march in Marquette was one of many similar marches across the country. The 20-degree weather didn’t deter participants from advocating for science and taking steps toward a better future.
“I wanted to march for the Earth because it’s an issue that’s bigger than just ourselves,” Will Barnwell, a junior secondary education social studies major said.

Once participants reached the Marquette Commons and had a chance to warm up, a rally began with Marty Reinhardt, professor of Native American studies, leading songs on his Morning Thunderdrum to “help pray for science.” He explained how the songs had messages of protecting the Earth. This was further explored when three local speakers discussed issues such as indigenous rights and the importance of advocacy for scientific policy and activism.

The main difference between this march and last years was the addition of four speakers, each with a 30-minute “teach-in” presentation, which followed the discussions at the rally to provide education and insight to listeners, Frischkorn said.

“I am excited that this year we have the teach-ins,” he said. “You can’t advocate for science without knowing about these issues. We have a variety of subjects to introduce to people.”

Mary Martin discussed carbon cycling and climate change, Sarah Mittlefehldt discussed environmental justice, April Lindala discussed indigenous rights and Jennifer Hill discussed local renewable energy.

Informational booths featured local organizations who provided opportunities for volunteerism and activism within the Marquette community, as well as resources for sustainability initiatives.