Join our museum’s Gallery Guides for a “drop-in” tour that explores the vital impacts made by engaged communities on scientific discovery, environmental justice, and public health.

Our Science & Activism Tour invites visitors to consider these questions: Who is a scientist? Who is an activist? How does each bring about change?

Stories include the influential book Silent Spring by conservationist Rachel Carson and the rise of the environmental movement; ACT UP, the AIDS crisis, and the development of the patients’ bill of rights; the Black Panthers’ lead role in community testing for sickle cell anemia; and the community-led research conducted by neighborhood coalition groups fighting to make government and industry accountable for environmental injustice.

This tour offers a broad picture of the ways activists have reshaped our understanding of science and how visitors can become engaged today.


Drop-in tours are free and no reservations are necessary.

More events

oil painting of an alchemist working beside a window
November 12, 2026
Free

Art of Alchemy Self-Guided Visit

Step into the age of alchemy and explore works in our new permanent exhibition, Fire and Gold: The Art of Alchemy (1450–1850).

outdoor photo of Ben Feringa in a shirt and blazer
November 13, 2026
Programs, Lectures & Talks

Ullyot Lecture and Award: Ben Feringa

SOLD OUT! The 2016 Nobel co-laureate in chemistry will present this year’s lecture, “The Art of Building Small,” followed by a Q&A session and award presentation.

Color print advertisement for the Dow Chemical Company depicting a woman buying groceries at a checkout counter with a line of people behind her.
November 14, 2026
For Families

Stories of Science: Feasting on Chemistry

Join us in our museum EVERY SATURDAY for a family-friendly program that highlights strange and surprising stories from the history of science!

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