HILO, Hawaii – On April 22, the March For Science was a part of the Merrie Monarch Royal Parade in Hilo, Hawaii.

On the same day, organizers say Marches for Science happened in close to 500 communities around the world, including others in Hawaii.

The March For Science website calls it a nonpartisan effort. “The application of science to policy is not a partisan issue,” the website states. “Anti-science agendas and policies have been advanced by politicians on both sides of the aisle, and they harm everyone — without exception. Science should neither serve special interests nor be rejected based on personal convictions. At its core, science is a tool for seeking answers. It can and should influence policy and guide our long-term decision-making.”

We spoke to March For Science Hilo co-organizer Heather Kimball before the parade kicked off.