The group, a South Florida branch of an anti-Trump organization, will rally against the president's decision to slash billions from services critical to Floridians during hurricane season, which began June 1. The Trump administration in March pulled $11 billion from state and local health departments; in April, he slashed about $882 million from FEMA's Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities (BRIC) program (which provides funding to states and local governments for hazard mitigation projects), and his "skinny budget" calls for about $1.5 billion in cuts from NOAA, NWS' parent agency.
When is the Miami Rally for Science?
The protest is scheduled for Sunday, June 8, in Miami.What Time is the Rally?
It's scheduled to begin at about 10 a.m. and run to 12:30 p.m., according to the announcement.Where is the Miami Protest for Science?
Organizers are calling protesters to meet at Maurice A. Ferré Park at 1075 Biscayne Blvd. in Miami.What to Know: Background Ahead of Rally
Protest organizers worry the Trump administration's cuts have left South Florida residents unprotected during hurricane season, according to the rally announcement. Its aim is to advocate for the restoration of critical funding to these organizations.
"Hurricane season is upon us and we are unprotected," the event description reads. "The Weather Service has been defunded, and FEMA is being dismantled. We are protesting Trump's cuts to the services and workers who make us safe.
The event will take place on World Ocean Day, which raises awareness for and supports various sustainability initiatives.
"And, as we enter hurricane season, the importance of accurate and timely weather warnings cannot be overstated," the announcement continues. "Unfortunately, with recent budget cuts, resources for these essential services are dwindling, leaving communities at risk."
The NWS plays a crucial role in forecasting weather patterns.
The rally is not only a call to action, but a chance for the community to voice concerns. Participants will gather to demand adequate funding for disaster preparedness and response, ensuring that all residents have access to the information and resources needed to remain safe during storms.