Science is at a crossroads. How will we respond?

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Introduction

Science doesn’t happen in a vacuum. It thrives in communities—of researchers, educators, policy-makers, and public advocates. But what happens when science itself is under threat?

In recent years, STEM professionals have found themselves facing unprecedented political and social challenges, with policies that directly undermine scientific integrity, collaboration, and access. What Can We Do?

We believe the answer lies in community organizing. That’s why we’re launching a series of four book clubs to explore how the principles of organizing can be applied to STEM fields.

Community Organizing Book Clubs

This project, running from May through July 2025, will host a series of four book clubs that blend the insights of classic community organizing literature with the lived experiences of STEM professionals. The goal? To empower individuals across scientific fields with practical tools to organize, advocate, and lead from within their communities.

Each club will dive into a thought-provoking book:

• Building Powerful Community Organizations by Michael Jacoby Brown provides a step-by-step guide to launching and sustaining grassroots movements.
• More Fearless Change by Mary Lynn Manns and Linda Rising offers proven strategies for influencing change in teams and organizations.
• Collective Action for Social Change by Aaron Schutz and Marie G. Sandy illustrates how personal stories can become fuel for powerful public action.
• Rules for Radicals by Saul D. Alinsky delivers enduring principles for effective, values-driven advocacy.
• Check out the projects page for more information about each book.

As the discussions unfold, we will share blog posts with key takeaways (co-written with participants) to extend the conversation to a wider audience. Ultimately, these insights will inform the development of a STEM Community Organizing Handbook—a practical guide for those looking to take action.

How To Get Involved

• Apply to join a book club—Selected participants will receive their book and a stipend.
• Contribute to the conversation—Additional stipends available for blog posts.
• Stay engaged—If you’re not selected, we’ll share other ways to participate.

If you’re a STEM professional based in the U.S. and interested in using the tools of community organizing to strengthen the future of science, we invite you to apply!

Important Dates

• Application Deadline: April 11, 2025
• Applicants Notified By: April 21, 2025
• Book Club Sessions: May – July 2025

Together, we can protect science and empower the STEM community to take action.
Questions? Email us at [email protected]

Acknowledgements

Funding for this project is provided by the RIOS Institute. We would also like to thank Dr. Greg Wilson for sparking the idea that resulted in this project.

Photo Credit: Cottonbro Studio