It's time our voices joined the chorus. We were horrified by the murder of George Floyd, a black man who died at the hands of a white police officer in Minnesota. What has happened to our culture when one human does not allow another even to breathe? We are indeed a nation in shock at the sight, and experiencing a profound pain.
Christian Cooper, a fellow birder who is black, was seeking out a pair of Scarlet Tanagers in New York's Central Park. There he was falsely accused by a white woman of attacking her. It was shameful. It revealed the ugliest reality of our culture: Christian was being singled out. Harassed. Disallowed. This must stop. As a white birder, I’ve never felt like I needed permission to do what I love. Race should not have any bearing on whether you can explore the outdoors, enjoy nature or go birding. It simply shouldn't. The whole of our world must be equally safe and welcoming for all people.
There is a bright, questioning light focussed on us all… What are we doing about this?
Racism is the vile core of this problem, of course. And beside it are economic injustice and long standing structural inequalities in our society. This is why the outdoors has not been a refuge for all. We must work to change that dynamic, to identify ways to be actively inclusive of all people. We at the Santa Clara Valley Audubon Society (SCVAS) need to fight against racism in all its forms and find ways to create a more welcoming community. We know we have work to do.
For almost a century, SCVAS has been committed to sharing our love for the environment with others, communicating the need for conservation and fostering the appreciation of birds. Our chapter’s very mission directs us: Inspire people to care about birds—promote the enjoyment, understanding, and protection of birds and their habitat by engaging people of all ages. People.
Although it may be implied by those words, it needs to be said explicitly and loudly. Right now: SCVAS welcomes all people who love and care for the environment. Regardless of the color of our skin, our gender or our sexual orientation, our shared love of nature makes us family.
To the birding community impacted by racism in America, we cherish your dedication to the cause of birds. And we need everyone’s help to move forward together and protect the world we share. Black and brown—we’ve never needed you more and we stand with you. Black Lives Matter.
Diversity is a strength. We bird best when we bird together.
Matthew Dodder, SCVAS Executive Director
Barry Langdon-Lassagne, member SCVAS Board of Directors