In Pictures: Science marchers defy rain in Washington DCPublished23 April 2017Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingImage source, BBC/Charlie NorthcottImage caption, Thousands of scientists have taken part in demonstrations around the world in protest against what they see as a global political assault on facts. <I>Photographs by Charlie Northcott.</I>Image source, BBC/Charlie NorthcottImage caption, The main event was held in Washington DC in the United States.Image source, BBC/Charlie NorthcottImage caption, Thousands of protesters turned out despite the bad weather.Image source, BBC/Charlie NorthcottImage caption, Marchers came with plenty of protection against the rain.Image source, BBC/Charlie NorthcottImage caption, The event, timed to coincide with Earth Day, also called for action to protect the environment.Image source, BBC/Charlie NorthcottImage caption, Some protested against funding cuts for science and the environment.Image source, BBC/Charlie NorthcottImage caption, There was a festival atmosphere beside the Washington Monument, where a stage was erected for music and speeches.Image source, BBC/Charlie NorthcottImage caption, Organisers said it was a celebration of science and a call to support and safeguard the scientific community.Image source, BBC/Charlie NorthcottImage caption, Marchers wanted to demonstrate "the vital role science plays in our democracy".More on this storyRallies worldwide in defence of sciencePublished22 April 2017