During the 2019 IACUC Conference, I attended a discussion on engaging the public in conversations about the use of animals in research. In reflecting on this session, I felt both worry and hope. My gut tells me that when regulatory agencies ask for input on items of importance to research, an overwhelming number of responses are from detractors of animal research in support of their personal agenda, while those of us in the research world remain silent, maybe finding comfort in the thought that “someone else will reply”. We have to start speaking openly and honestly about what we do.We have to be strong advocates and build  bridges for communicating with the public so that a new generation continues to carry the torch in support of responsible animal research into the future. Read more