ESA Policy Action Alert for Federal Research

Dear ESA Community,

Recent U.S. administration executive orders (EOs) affecting research funding, data sets, the federal STEM workforce, diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in federal agencies and scientific research funding programs have introduced uncertainty and concern for the ecological community. While the full implications remain unclear, we are steadfast in our commitment to advocating for our mission, programs.

ESA’s Commitment to You

• We will champion scientific integrity, academic freedom, and the inclusion of diverse perspectives in scientific research and policy.
• We will speak to defend researchers and federal scientists from censorship and undue restrictions.
• We will advocate for stable and predictable research funding, enabling scientists to pursue ambitious work and drive meaningful discoveries.
• We will work to ensure that researchers have the autonomy and resources—including access to critical datasets—needed to conduct their work with integrity.
• We will continue to emphasize the importance of science as an objective, evidence-based approach to solving environmental and societal challenges.

Science is nonpartisan. Its role in informing sound policy and sustainable solutions has never been more critical. Now is the time to reaffirm our collective commitment to scientific knowledge, protect access to essential data, and defend researchers from censorship and undue restrictions.

ESA will continue to support you, advocate for science, and uphold the principles that guide our work.

We encourage you to stay engaged, share your expertise, and help shape policies that impact the future of ecological science. Your voice is vital in ensuring that research remains a foundation for informed decision-making and a more sustainable future.

Together, we will continue to advance the science of ecology and uphold its critical role in society.

Sincerely,

The Ecological Society of America