OUR COMMITMENT TO DIVERSITY, EQUITY, & INCLUSION
Advocating for equity in everything we do
Sonoma Land Trust is committed to bringing greater diversity, equity, and inclusion to our work, our workplace, and the communities we serve.
The land is for all
While the land conservation movement has long sought to protect and restore the Earth for the benefit of humanity, much of its history is rooted in systemic racism. Early leaders like Madison Grant, John Muir, Teddy Roosevelt, and Henry Fairfield Osborn promoted the idea that nature was “pure” and that certain communities, particularly Black, Indigenous, and non-white people, should be excluded. Not only were such ideas morally wrong, they were also scientifically baseless.
The interconnectedness of all life is a fundamental truth: ecosystems, cultures, and communities are woven together. To deny that fact was not only a profound injustice, but a mistake that continues to threaten the survival of people and the natural world alike. Recognizing and confronting this legacy is essential if our conservation movement is to move forward. We can only address climate change and biodiversity loss through our collective strength, wisdom, and unity.
STATEMENTS OF SUPPORT
We seek to communicate in ways that reflect our values, and to share our platform with and welcome the voices and ideas of diverse groups, including Black, Indigenous and People of Color (BIPOC) communities, Tribal, as well as the LGBTQIA+ community.
As we pursue our mission of conserving land in Sonoma County, we recognize that we stand upon the unceded ancestral lands of many Indigenous peoples.
Sonoma Land Trust is committed to creating a culture and workplace that cultivates belonging by celebrating diversity and valuing the voices and contributions of all employees, board members, interns, volunteers, partners, and program participants.
Sonoma Land Trust stands with our Asian American and Pacific Islander community members and rejects the violent, discriminatory behavior that has been directed toward them throughout the country.
The Land Trust condemns the horrific killing of George Floyd, and the despicable threats made to Christian Cooper (a birder, conservation donor and volunteer), as morally unconscionable acts.
A Plan for an Equitable Future
We recognize that every person is part of nature, and healthy individuals and communities rely on healthy environments. We are committed to a future in which our communities are physically, mentally, and spiritually healthy, both today and for generations to come.
EDUCATION & COMMUNITY PROGRAMS
We acknowledge there is much work to do to reach the goal of ensuring that our programs, protected lands, and resources are shared equitably with the community. Whether it’s bilingual family outings, school field trips, youth development programs focused on conservation, or Tribal relations training, Sonoma Land Trust is making strides through a variety of educational and community efforts.
REMOVING BARRIERS TO THE OUTDOORS
We believe that equitable access to nature means creating and protecting open spaces while actively removing barriers so people of all ages, cultures, and backgrounds can connect with nature. Our parks are beautiful shared areas where local tribes and community groups can gather, practice land-based traditions, and learn together.
