On Earth Day 2017, scientists and science lovers around the world united to demonstrate their appreciation of a concept that means different things to different people. For some, it is a job; for others, a hobby; many thank science for saving their life, and still others appreciate science for improving their standard of living.

Regardless of the exact nature of each supporter’s prior interactions with, and affection for, science, one feeling united all participants involved in the demonstrations: Science is currently under attack. Two science advocates share their views on how we got to this point, and what we need to do next.