From Dissent to Dialogue: The Bethesda Declaration and the Fight for Academic Freedom
Tuesday, August 25, 2026 @ 4:00 pm - 5:30 pm
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In June 2025, hundreds of NIH scientists signed an open letter – the Bethesda Declaration – refusing to stay silent about political interference in research.
On August 25, one of the key authors, Dr. Wen-Ying Sylvia Chou (SPH, class of 2008), a former NIH program official and health communication scholar, is coming to Berkeley to discuss the perils facing research inside and outside the NIH.
The conversation will highlight opportunities to resist censorship and anticipatory compliance, engage in honest conversations, and defend academic freedom. Dr. Chou will share personal reflections and lessons learned on building and growing a community in collaboration with media, legislative, and academic partners.
Together with UC Berkeley’s Dr. Arthur Reingold, MD and Claudia Polsky, JD they will share lessons learned and opportunities to protect the integrity of academic research.
These events are open only to UC Berkeley Law students, faculty, and staff, unless otherwise noted.
Events are wheelchair accessible. For disability-related accommodations, contact the organizer of the event. Advance notice is kindly requested.
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