At a protest in Westwood, science advocates and members of the UCLA Faculty Association urged Californians to support a bill that would place scientific research funding on the 2026 ballot. The demonstration, part of the second annual Stand Up For Science rally, drew around 40 attendees who listened to speeches before marching at 1 p.m.
Organized by the Stand Up For Science nonprofit and the UCLA Faculty Association, the event aimed to raise awareness about federal threats to science funding. The federal government had suspended over $584 million in research grants for UCLA, with more than $230 million still frozen as of January 2026.
Speakers advocated for California Senate Bill 895, which proposes the creation of the California Foundation for Science and Health Research. This foundation would allocate $23 billion for scientific projects through state bond sales. Dave Farina, a science educator, condemned increasing anti-science sentiment in the federal government, noting significant losses in federal science employment.
Speakers shared personal stories about the impact of scientific research, highlighting its role in medical advancements and patient care. Advocates emphasized the necessity of SB 895 to safeguard California’s research capabilities amid federal funding uncertainties. Significantly, the proposed funding aims to bolster California’s economy and scientific innovation without raising taxes, presenting a vital opportunity for growth in various fields, including biotech and green technology.
Protesters carried signs supporting public health research after the speeches concluded, emphasizing their commitment to advocating for science for future generations.
