Black Lives Matter. We at Save the Redwoods League are deeply disturbed by historical and recent racial violence against Black Americans. We understand that there is a very real connection between the history of racism and exclusion in the conservation movement and the racism and injustice that persists in people’s everyday lives today. From Christian Cooper to George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, Ahmaud Arbery, and countless others, these are not political issues. These are human rights issues.
When Black, Indigenous, and other communities of color are at risk of scrutiny, dehumanization, and violence just by being outside, it means that we have not achieved the part of our mission to connect all people with the restorative power of the redwood forest. As members of a larger conservation movement, we at the League commit to being better allies to Black and other marginalized communities by not only standing in solidarity at this moment, but also by elevating their perspectives, needs, and interests in our work.
We have started to partner directly with community-based organizations to create inclusive, safe redwood experiences for all, and we humbly acknowledge that we have a ways to go. Together, we hope to help build a future in which everyone can live and recreate in peace and without fear.
Learn more about Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion initiatives at the League.
