“The Western Society of Naturalists believes that Black lives matter and we are inspired by those who are using their time, energy, and wallets to affect positive change. As a society, we have an obligation to speak out when we see inequities and injustices. To our Black colleagues, students, teachers, and friends – we are with you!
The WSN President, Secretariat, and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee value our members as a whole people, with a range of backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives. We are committed to fostering an inclusive and equitable environment that allows each of us to bring our authentic self into our work. We also recognize that a diversity of perspectives is critical to the advancement of science and society.
We encourage continued conversations about the insidious and systemic racial inequalities in the USA and across the globe. Everyone is responsible for taking action to ensure racial parity. We are committed to the fight for fairness and racial justice, and hope that you will join us in efforts toward deep and meaningful change.
There is an incredible sense of urgency for reform. If you are looking for ways to take action, please check out the resources made available by the NAACP and ACLU. Finally, we welcome suggestions from the WSN membership on how we can continue to move forward as a professional society. Our work to support fairness is far from over.”
– Dr. Danielle Zacherl, 2019-2020 President of the Western Society of Naturalists
– Drs. Patrick Martone, Mary O’Connor, Chris Harley, and Francis Juanes, Secretariat of the Western Society of Naturalists
– Drs. Corey Garza (chair), Cheryl Barnes, Crystal Ng, Jennifer Burnaford, Mike Gil, and Alexandra Davis, WSN Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee