WCAS Statement on Solidarity with the Black Community

Photo: Scarlet Tanager (Piranga olivacea) by Laura Gooch, Cleveland Lakefront Nature Preserve, 8701 Lakeshore Blvd, Cleveland, OH 44108.

The Western Cuyahoga Audubon Society stands in solidarity with the Black community. All across the U.S., and around the world, protesters have taken to the streets to demonstrate against the brutal murder of George Floyd and countless others from the Black American community at the hands of the police. 

WCAS Statement on Solidarity with the Black Community

The Western Cuyahoga Audubon Society stands in solidarity with the Black community. All across the U.S., and around the world, protesters have taken to the streets to demonstrate against the brutal murder of George Floyd and countless others from the Black community at the hands of the police. Protesters have taken to the streets to demonstrate against the unjust police violence, lynchings, and racial inequalities that have existed and persisted in our society for too long. 

Western Cuyahoga Audubon Society condemns the systemic racism and bigotry ingrained in our society and we call on our local, state, and national leaders to take action for change. Additionally, we urge all people in the birding community to do their part to condemn racism at birding events, activities, and out on the trails. Western Cuyahoga Audubon Society is committed to listening to and amplifying the voices of the Black  community, especially of those within our shared area of focus, which is the education, conservation, and enjoyment of our natural world and wildlife.

Western Cuyahoga Audubon Society has already reached out to urban and underserved communities, yet must do more. Our organization is committed to internally analyzing our volunteer recruitment practices to ensure we are giving a fair opportunity for a diverse volunteer base. We are committed to analyzing our program outreach to ensure we are making it clear that ALL are welcome, regardless of race, color, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender, age, and disability. It is our hope that we can engage with the Black community in a positive way as our natural spaces and birds that fly through them are to be enjoyed by everyone.

View: WCAS Statement on Solidarity with the Black Community (PDF)

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