National Audubon Society Statement to Election Winners
Statement from National Audubon Society President and CEO, David Yarnold
NEW YORK – “People are rising up to demand action on climate change and racial equity. And birds are telling us there is no time to lose: more than two-thirds of North American birds are threatened with extinction because of climate change. We need bold, equitable, and durable action on climate. That’s why Audubon’s 1.9 million members are helping to lead this movement. Rural and urban, progressive and conservative, Black college students and white grandparents all agree that everyone regardless of race or ethnicity should have access to clean air and water and feel safe and welcome in the outdoors.
“Now that the votes have been counted, it’s important that the rule of law is respected and the peaceful transition of power proceeds as it has since the founding of our nation. The tone of this election season put a spotlight on the deep divisions in our nation. Audubon members are deeply troubled by the racist, sexist and homophobic rhetoric present in some campaigns. These divisions make it even harder to address climate change and to protect the places both birds and people need to thrive. But Audubon members know there is a better way forward—one that lifts up all people and creates a healthier, more resilient world.
“We have a long history as community builders, and because we are local everywhere, our membership reflects America. Our membership is 53 percent progressive and 47 percent moderate/conservative, and we have members in nearly every county in the United States.
“In a recent survey of our membership, we found that:
Nearly every Audubon member (97%) agrees that “every American, regardless of race or color, should have equal access to clean air and clean water.” That belief is shared by 98% of progressive Audubon members and 96% of moderates and conservatives—a deeply held value across political lines.
More than 95% of all Audubon members—including 9 in 10 moderate and conservative members—report concern about the following issues:
Destruction of habitat for birds and other wildlife;
Air and water pollution;
Attacks on bedrock environmental laws;
Oil drilling and mining on protected public lands.
75% of all Audubon members, including a majority of moderate and conservative members, rank climate change as one of their top three concerns among all issues facing America today—and 82% of Audubon members (including 61% of moderates and conservatives) are personally “very concerned” about growing impacts of climate change.
“Our membership demonstrates strong support across the political spectrum for action on environmental, climate, and community priorities.
“We need durable solutions with support across political lines—and our members are ready to raise their voices. Environmental concerns are no place for partisan divisions.
“Audubon is resolute in our ambition for inclusivity, our commitment to becoming an anti-racist organization, and our determination to address the disproportionate impact climate change and air and water pollution have on marginalized communities.
“To that end, we will advocate for a more resilient and inclusive economy with more green jobs, for cleaner air, and stronger communities that protect birds, conserve water, restore wetlands, and reduce emissions.
“We look forward to working with elected officials to achieve this vision.”
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About Audubon
The National Audubon Society protects birds and the places they need, today and tomorrow. Audubon works throughout the Americas using science, advocacy, education, and on-the-ground conservation. State programs, nature centers, chapters, and partners give Audubon an unparalleled wingspan that reaches millions of people each year to inform, inspire, and unite diverse communities in conservation action. A nonprofit conservation organization since 1905, Audubon believes in a world in which people and wildlife thrive. Learn more at www.audubon.org and on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram @audubonsociety.
Media Contact: Matt Smelser, matt.smelser@audubon.org, (512) 739-9635