By Mike Stevens, Washington State Director
The events of the last week have once again brought issues of race, bigotry, tolerance and inclusion to the front of our national discourse. These events are deeply upsetting and leave many of us unsettled.
At The Nature Conservancy, our strength comes from diverse backgrounds, beliefs and experiences, and we will continue to speak up for the values that are at the very heart of who we are as an organization. Our thoughts are with our colleagues in Charlottesville, with everyone affected by these horrific events and with all who are the targets of bigotry and hatred.
Two of the Conservancy’s core values are “respect for people, communities and cultures” and “commitment to diversity.” These values cut across political, cultural and geographic boundaries. They unite us as people and as a community working to build a more just and flourishing society — a difficult, inspiring and necessary path to sustaining people and nature.
Taking a stand for equality and against racism, bigotry and intolerance is not just the right thing to do, but it’s also crucial to achieve our conservation mission. To create a world wherein people and nature both thrive, we need creativity, innovation and diversity of thought. That means we need all people bringing their ideas to the table in a safe and inclusive environment. Success depends on deep and lasting relationships with diverse communities across our state and around the world. Today and every day, we stand up for the people in these communities.
Our success depends on deep and lasting relationships with diverse communities across our state. Pictured are volunteers during Make a Difference Day, October 2016. Photo © Michael B Maine.
