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Black Americans often face terrible daily dangers in outdoor spaces, where they are subjected to unwarranted suspicion, confrontation, and violence. The outdoors—and the joy of birds—should be safe and welcoming for all people. https://www.audubon.org/news/audubon-statement-incident-central-parks-ramble
That’s the reality Audubon and our partners are working hard to achieve. We unequivocally condemn racist sentiments, behavior, and systems that undermine the humanity, rights, and freedom of Black people.
We are grateful Christian Cooper is safe. He takes great delight in sharing New York City’s birds with others and serves as a board member of @NYCAudubon, where he promotes conservation of New York City’s outdoor spaces and inclusion of all people.
This incident shows how quickly something as simple as going birding or even going to the park can take on new meaning if you’re Black. This essay by @JasonWardNY explores this topic as well. https://www.audubon.org/news/the-woods-are-my-safe-haven-thats-not-true-everyone
Author and naturalist J. Drew Lanham— @1blackbirder—has reflected on what it means to bird while black, including dealing with racist encounters while in the field. https://www.audubon.org/news/the-united-state-birding
