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Jury hears Trump and Cohen Discussing Hush-Money Deal on secret recording; Nature-based solutions help solve Mississippi River Delta problems; Public lands groups cheer the expansion of two CA national monuments; 'Art Against the Odds' shines a light on artists in the WI justice system.

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President Biden defends dissent but says "order must prevail" on campus, former President Trump won't commit to accepting the 2024 election results and Nebraska lawmakers circumvent a ballot measure repealing private school vouchers.

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Bidding begins soon for Wyoming's elk antlers, Southeastern states gained population in the past year, small rural energy projects are losing out to bigger proposals, and a rural arts cooperative is filling the gap for schools in Pennsylvania and West Virginia.

Thousands of Women in Science, Technology Sign Letter to Trump

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Monday, February 20, 2017   

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – A movement that started among friends concerned about how women were sometimes labeled and treated during the presidential campaign has turned into an effort to empower young girls, and steer them toward careers in science and technology.

The group 500 Women Scientists began when four female scientists expressed their worries to each other.

They reached out to friends and colleagues with the goal of getting 500 to sign a letter to President Donald Trump, asking him to honor his pledge to be "a president for everyone."

They've collected nearly 17,000 signatures.

Mallory Conlon, who has a master's degree in astronomy at the University of Illinois, says she signed the letter because diversity is crucial to science.

"We see when science thrives, technology can advance and the world that we live in becomes a healthier, safer and more productive place,” she states. “So, by getting those new voices, we can really advance science and not necessarily be stuck in a status quo."

The letter, published in Forbes magazine, contains several suggestions, including appointing accredited science advisers in government to promote evidence-based policy; protecting the environment, clean air and water; making science education a priority from pre-K to college; and putting policies in place that lead to equal pay for women.

Nichole Barger, an associate professor of ecology at the University of Colorado, says there are many who are still concerned about Trump's election, but she's convinced that can be turned into something positive.

"I think what we're seeing is more engagement of girls and women in science,” she states. “And I think there was a feeling that it could be set back, but I think what we're seeing is a surge forward of interest."

A co-founder of 500 Women Scientists, Jane Zelikova, says the group is urging communities to start mentoring programs for young women and girls.

"That's one way we can ensure that the younger generations that have been feeling like they're not welcome in science have mentors that look like them, that they can look up to and actually work with to further their own interest in science and eventually, make science a career," she states.





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