Over 2,100 Mathematicians(over 75 nationalities) signed a petition calling for the relocation of 2026 International Congress of Mathematicians(ICM) outside USA, arguing it's no longer a safe host

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https://www.academicjobs.com/higher-education-news/mathematicians-boycott-icm-2026-thousands-protest-us-conference-or-academicjobs-12295

Crossposted from https://mander.xyz/post/50581228

Petition.

The mathematics community is in turmoil as over 2,100 mathematicians from more than 75 countries have signed a petition calling for the relocation of the 2026 International Congress of Mathematicians (ICM) from Philadelphia, United States. Launched by University of Toronto mathematicians Ila Varma and Tarik Aougab, the petition argues that the U.S. is no longer a safe or suitable host due to recent geopolitical tensions and domestic security issues. Signatories include more than 100 former ICM speakers and seven invited speakers for the 2026 event, underscoring the depth of discontent within the field.

This collective action marks one of the most significant protests in modern mathematical history, highlighting how global politics is infiltrating even the most abstract academic disciplines. The petition's rapid growth—from a few hundred to over 2,000 signatures in weeks—reflects long-simmering frustrations among international scholars who view the ICM as a symbol of unity and collaboration.

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Honestly math people are generally kinda weird (in a good way), and not fitting into specific normative molds is now dangerous in the US.

But really, of even one trans or brown mathematician can’t go there safely, nobody should.

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I love watching people stand up for their morals. It makes me feel less alone.

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ICE has literally kidnapped or murdered citizens, in addition to people with other statuses… So no, you shouldn’t visit here.

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Comments in Science@mander.xyz

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They’re mathematicians, not texticians! They can’t word so good.

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You right. No bother bully.

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I guess using an LLM is technically mathematics

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IETF was in Shenzhen in March. During the plenum there were a number of people (all remote Americans) complaining about the location choice. (Also some from India, but those were valid concerns for timing with tough passports).

There was a LOT of dislike for those comments from everyone there, because it’s in San Francisco in September and there are a lot of concerned individuals in that community. A shame they couldn’t see the larger reaction, and only those from people (myself included) willing to speak up in front of everyone. I am American, ftr.

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