Why Do We continue to celebrate John James Audubon, the “father of American ornithology,” despite his undeniable history of racism and slave ownership? This question compels a critical examination of Audubon’s legacy and its impact on the birding community and conservation movement today. While his artistic contributions to ornithology are undeniable, his deeply flawed character forces us to confront uncomfortable truths about the historical foundations of our passion.
Why Do We Grapple with Audubon’s Complicated Past?
Audubon’s name is synonymous with birds. His seminal work, Birds of America, with its life-size illustrations, revolutionized ornithological study. However, Audubon was also a slave owner who actively participated in the horrific institution of slavery. He profited from the forced labor of at least nine people, treating them as property rather than human beings. This stark contrast between artistic brilliance and moral depravity necessitates a deeper exploration of why we continue to venerate him.
Why Do We Overlook the Contributions of Others?
Why do we focus so intently on the contributions of white figures like Audubon, while neglecting the significant contributions of Black, Indigenous, and people of color (BIPOC) to conservation? Figures like George Washington Carver, a pioneer in soil conservation, and Majora Carter, a leader in the environmental justice movement, are often overlooked in the dominant narrative of environmentalism. This historical erasure perpetuates a system that marginalizes BIPOC voices and perspectives in conservation.
Why Do We Need to Reexamine Our Conservation Values?
Audubon’s racism extended beyond his personal life. He perpetuated harmful stereotypes about Black people and contributed to a culture of white supremacy within the environmental movement. This raises critical questions about the values embedded within conservation and the need for systemic change. Why do we allow organizations bearing his name to continue upholding a legacy built on injustice? It’s time to confront the uncomfortable truth that racism has permeated even our seemingly innocuous love of birds. Historical records from Audubon societies reveal blatant prejudice against Black people, blaming them for bird population declines.
Why Do We Need to Embrace a More Inclusive Future?
Ignoring Audubon’s problematic past would be a disservice to the principles of justice and equality. Why do we hesitate to challenge the status quo and embrace a more inclusive vision for the future of birding and conservation? This requires acknowledging the historical injustices perpetuated by figures like Audubon and actively working to dismantle systemic racism within environmental organizations. It means amplifying the voices and contributions of BIPOC individuals and creating spaces where everyone feels welcome and valued.
Why Do We Need to Act Now?
The reckoning with Audubon’s legacy is part of a broader societal movement demanding racial justice and equity. Why do we wait to address these issues within the birding and conservation communities? We must move beyond symbolic gestures and implement meaningful changes in policies and practices. This includes diversifying leadership, promoting inclusive narratives, and ensuring equitable access to nature for all. We must actively work to create a future where the love of birds unites us, rather than divides us along lines of race.
J. Drew Lanham is a conservation ornithologist and endowed faculty at Clemson University. Adrian Brandon is a Brooklyn-based artist.
