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31 January 2017
The Optical Society Responds to Immigration Ban
31 January 2017
The Optical Society Responds to Immigration Ban
WASHINGTON - The Optical Society (OSA) expresses concern over the 27 January 2017 Presidential Executive Order, “Protecting the Nation From Foreign Terrorist Entry Into the United States,” and the impact it will have on scientific freedom and the exchange of ideas. This order restricts the ability of scientists to enter the United States to study, attend a conference or to pursue research interests. We understand the need for strong mechanisms to safeguard the national security of the United States but OSA encourages the Trump Administration to take a more measured approach.
OSA has joined other scientific societies on a letter to President Trump urging the Administration to rescind the Executive Order and work in partnership with stakeholders to find a balanced approach to address national security and the need for scientific integrity. OSA members are urged to submit your details if you or your colleagues have been affected by this Executive Order. OSA is monitoring the situation and its potential impacts, but in light of the uncertainty surrounding the application of the Executive Order, we encourage those individuals whose travel may be affected to refer to any information provided by their airlines and governments, and also to contact their embassies for guidance.
We encourage US members of OSA to engage with policymakers by participating in the annual Congressional Visits Day (CVD) taking place in Washington, DC from 25-26 April 2017. CVD is a multi-society event in which scientists, engineers, business leaders and students visit Capitol Hill to advocate for issues of importance to science and technology. To learn more: LightOurFuture.org/CVD.
About The Optical Society
Founded in 1916, The Optical Society (OSA) is the leading professional organization for scientists, engineers, students and business leaders who fuel discoveries, shape real-life applications and accelerate achievements in the science of light. Through world-renowned publications, meetings and membership initiatives, OSA provides quality research, inspired interactions and dedicated resources for its extensive global network of optics and photonics experts. For more information, visit osa.org/100.
Media Contacts:
mediarelations@osa.og
