Diversity, Equity and Inclusion

The Alliance releases its Diversity Equity, Inclusion, and Justice Terminology Guide for communicators

After a year of continued research and discussion, the Alliance unveiled the official DEIJ Terminology Communications Guide on September 17th, 2021 coupled with resources for further definitive research and access to inclusive perspectives. While the guide was created to help address questions our own staff has had over the years, we hope it can serve as an invaluable resource to other communicators as well.

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“This Bay is Your Bay, This Bay is Our Bay”

Earlier this month, I took part in a webinar hosted by the Smithsonian Environmental Research Center, Through Ebony Eyes: Preserving the Legacy of Blacks on the Chesapeake. Vince Leggett, the Founder and President of Blacks of the Chesapeake, was the primary presenter. Mr. Leggett is a compelling speaker, weaving in his own experience with tales …

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Looking Inward on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

At the Alliance, we envision resilient landscapes cared for all people who live, work, and play in the Chesapeake Bay watershed. Last year, the Alliance amplified its commitment to all Chesapeake Bay communities to continue to build a culture of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) within our organization and through all the work we do.

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Pride Paving the Way for Safe Space and Community in the Outdoors

As we consider safe spaces in the outdoors there are often two important themes: inclusivity in natural spaces and forging community through natural spaces. Natural areas can help people connect, heal, and relax but unfortunately they are also spaces where many non-white or queer folks have been historically excluded. As I reflect on Pride Month and all the fantastic events around the watershed I also want to recognize the individuals and groups who work hard every day to build pride, safety, and community through natural spaces.

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Celebrating Juneteenth across the Chesapeake Bay Watershed

Juneteenth is the oldest nationally celebrated commemoration of the ending of slavery in the United States. Find out about a few celebrations happening in the cities where the Alliance has offices and virtual events you can enjoy from the comfort of your home.

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Finding your serenity in the garden

May is here and nature is in full bloom! Let’s slow down and take it all in – or at least what’s in our own planters!
National Garden Meditation Day is recognized on May 3rd of each year and encourages us all to stop and smell the roses, literally!

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Rethinking Earth Day through the lens of Climate Justice

Recently it has become more difficult to separate Earth Day events from the awareness of climate change. Traditional Earth Day celebrations and “environmentalism” in general conjure images of vast spaces of protected pristine lands and water, majestic forests, and quintessential North American wildlife species that evoke the feeling of special places and patriotism. Or we …

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Women in Forestry

When you work in the world of forest landowner education, specifically with women who own woodlands, you are bound to hear sooner than later a version of the same cautionary tale. There’s the victim – in the case I learned, a recent widow – and an antagonist – the opportunistic logger. Shortly after the widow’s …

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Meet the Next Generation of Black Environmentalists

During Black History Month this year, I have read several articles about the iconic environmental breakthroughs of George Washington Carver, or the conservationist mindset of Charles Young. However, I found myself seeking more information about today’s Black environmentalists, the spaces they are working in, and how the Alliance can unite and uplift their messages. I’m …

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The Pages of Black History – Every Month

5 inspiring reads to help develop a richer understanding of the world, strengthen interpersonal skills, and increase your creativity.

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