This week is the annual SLUO trip to Washington. Again, we join forces with Fermilab and the U.S. LHC User Group to carry a common message about particle physics and the physical sciences to the Congress. I’ll try to keep a daily journal here about what I learn, without getting too much into details that may be meant for a narrower audience. Regardless of the gritty specifics, I am sure there is much I can communicate about what I learn this week.
Already there is motion in Washington to undo the mess of the Omnibus Bill. Representatives and Senators are circulating letters on behalf of DOE Office of Science and the National Science Foundation, calling for support for the proposed increases to those agencies in line with Congress’ own authorizations. We have to amplify support for those letters. There is bi-partisan consent that the President hasn’t really respected the funding needed to support the Congress’ own authorization, and note weaknesses in science education. This is good – sounds like SLUO and Congress are already on the same side.
We may have allies in Washington before we arrive, it seems. We must be thankful for their efforts to raise the profile of science. In a time when the future of the U.S. economy is a serious question, recognition that science and education are bedrock in the effort to create the economy of the future is critical. Funding that recognition is even more critical.
I’ll try to keep you up to date as this week kicks into gear.
