Never Give Up, Never Surrender

The National Butterfly Center on the Texas border (which carries out nationally important conservation and education work) is closing to the public indefinitely after attacks from right-wing conspiracy theorists. (The Center has been accused of helping in the sex-trafficking of migrants — the property is bounded on one side by the Rio Grande and fought against having Trump's Wall built through it.)

The Center had already announced a closure over last weekend, after staff at the center had been verbally abused and physically attacked and they were then notified of a right-wing rally taking place nearby that weekend.

The Center has committed to continuing to pay its staff — including those who are paid hourly — but clearly will not be receiving the usual revenues from visitors. They are therefore asking for donations.

You can read more about what's been happening in their two recent newsletters:

https://mailchi.mp/nationalbutterflycenter/v4jla7bmp9-5505325?e=15f8f8f2a5

https://mailchi.mp/nationalbutterflycenter/v4jla7bmp9-5536765?e=73e95bd914

And Donate Here

Thank a Government Scientist

The Union of Concerned Scientists is asking people to:

Help pushback against the anti-science rhetoric from the Trump administration with some appreciation: Take a moment to thank a government scientist today. Let them know how much you appreciate the crucial role they play in our daily lives and that you will advocate for science-based policies every day!

They provide suggested text and a hashtag for tweets/Facebook messages, along with contact details for the EPA, NOAA, NASA, DoE, USDA, FDA, USCPSC and NWS.

They are also offering to forward snailmail cards to the relevant agency if you mail them to the address they provide.