The National Wildlife Federation was founded in 1938 by Henry Wallace, a white man and Vice President of the US. The Federation is a non-profit, with 35% funding from private individuals, mostly white families, and 20% funding from major corporations. Much of the wildlife land in the US. was donated by wealthy white families, like Muir and Dupont. Almost all the land grants from the federal government to establish national parks happened during the presidency of white male presidents. Teddy Roosevelt is a grand example.
The same is true for state parks and city parks. Much of those areas were the direct result of white men and women in leadership positions with grants from white families.
Our National Parks and National Forests are wonderful. I have visited at least 24 in 12 states. Their beauty and grounds can be experienced by all who visit. In my 50+ years of enjoying the outdoors, I have never heard of anyone being excluded.
Yet, the National Wildlife Federation is condemning white people in their recent quarterly magazine. This is an outrage! Here are some excerpts from the Winter 2023 publication:
-“claiming our birthright…Black people are transforming conservation”
-“that relationship (Black Americans and the land) became deeply intertwined with oppression and unspeakable violence.”
-“Black researchers, writers, and environmental justice activists are changing the face of conservation.” Why is it necessary to single out 1 group?????
-“being out in nature often has not been safe for Black people.”
-“promoting events such as Taking Nature Black.”
-“Part of my childhood was camping trips, fishing, and ski trips in public outdoor spaces. It was only later that I realized it was unusual for a Black family.”
-“Historically, the conservation movement has tended to be insular and exclusionary, serving the interests of white male conservatists, and not allowing space for diverse perspectives.”
Why does the National Wildlife Federation find it necessary to condemn white males? Why does the NWF single out Black people? If Black people want to become involved with nature, I suggest they participate in the annual “Spring Clean-up of Rivers and Streams.” I have been involved with that effort for 6 years and I never saw a Black family being involved. It’s all volunteers!
Liberals have taken over another facet of America. Too Bad. I will do my best to see that their funding suffers.
High Truths and Low Lies 