UNITED STATES — Black Birders Week is back for its fifth installment, celebrating Black birders, naturalists and outdoor enthusiasts through Saturday, June 1.
Black Birders Week was created in 2020 following the Central Park birding incident involving birder Christian Cooper. According to Black AF In Stem, the aim was to “normalize the historically overlooked presence of Black birders, scientists and nature enthusiasts in the field (literally and figuratively) to make the natural sciences more inclusive, diverse and welcoming to people of all walks of life.”
This year’s theme is “Wings of Justice: Soaring for Change,” according to Black AF In Stem, the presenting organization. Nationwide, Black birders have been gathering to attend virtual and in-person events including bird walks, talks and panel discussions facilitating conversations about the intersection of birding, Black communities, Black culture and environmental justice.
“Environmental justice is at the core of our mission, and we believe it is essential to address the systemic inequities that impact access to and participation in birding,” Black Birders Week 2024 Planning Team Co-Chair Nicole Jackson said in a statement. “By acknowledging these barriers and working towards solutions, we can create a more inclusive and equitable environment for all birders.”
Participants and supporters can share Black Birders Week content and follow along by using the hashtag #BlackBirdersWeek on social media.
