In Pictures: Science marchers defy rain in Washington DC

A man with a "Don't Silence Science" maskBBC/Charlie Northcott

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>

A placard says "The good thing about science is that it's true whether you believe it or not"BBC/Charlie Northcott

The main event was held in Washington DC in the United States.

Protesters under umbrellasBBC/Charlie Northcott

Thousands of protesters turned out despite the bad weather.

Woman with sign reading Hats Off To ScienceBBC/Charlie Northcott

Marchers came with plenty of protection against the rain.

A woman with skeleton face paintBBC/Charlie Northcott

The event, timed to coincide with Earth Day, also called for action to protect the environment.

Man with Funding Science is Patriotic placardBBC/Charlie Northcott

Some protested against funding cuts for science and the environment.

Protesters gather in their hundreds by Washington Monument, next to a stageBBC/Charlie Northcott

There was a festival atmosphere beside the Washington Monument, where a stage was erected for music and speeches.

A man with a Stand Up for Science bannerBBC/Charlie Northcott

Organisers said it was a celebration of science and a call to support and safeguard the scientific community.

Woman carrying poster reading Science Is RealBBC/Charlie Northcott

Marchers wanted to demonstrate "the vital role science plays in our democracy".

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