Greetings!
Exciting news! After weeks of deliberation, our chapter has a new name, one that honors the natural beauty and incredible biodiversity of the mountains we call home. Starting today, the chapter is now officially named the Blue Ridge Audubon Chapter.
The Blue Ridge Mountains are among the most important places for birds in the country and serve as a climate stronghold for rare and threatened species found in few other places across our state. It’s where we hike. It’s where we go to lift our spirits and reconnect with nature. And most importantly, it’s where we go to watch and enjoy birds together.
As an organization that values diversity in birds and people, we decided to change the name because the old name didn’t honor or foster human diversity. Elisha Mitchell was an early conservationist. He was also a vocal proponent of slavery.
The new name is a small but important step in making the birding community a welcoming place for all.
In the months to come, we’ll be busy updating our website, Facebook page, signage, brochures, and all the rest. Please bear with us as we make the name change!
As always, thanks for all you do for birds,
-Board of Directors, Blue Ridge Audubon
