A Conference Presentation?

As my comfort level with the issue of diversity grew, I began to discuss my research and upcoming report with others in my EE certification class. Well, one of my new acquaintances is the new CEO of the environmental organization responsible for certifying environmental educators in Georgia.

After a brief chat about the issue of diversity, I had hopes of submitting an article to the organization's monthly enviro-newsletter. Instead, I was asked to submit a presentation for an upcoming conference. Well, what was I suppose to say..."NO, I don't have enough experience or information to do a good job addressing diversity?" Not! Instead, I sped up my research and submitted a conference presentation outline.

My presentation outline was accepted and is on track for the March 11, 2011 conference. Now all I have to do is continue with my research, prepare the presentation and PRAY :)

Learning about Diversity

Before I could offer ANY advice on the issue of diversity in environmental organizations, I had to research the issue for myself. I had about six months to learn as much as I could about diversity, so that I could advise others about implementing a plan to address it.

I attended meetings with others on the task force and visited Elachee Nature Center to gain insight into its organizational structure. I contacted other chapters of the birding organization to see what they were doing in the area of diversity. What I learned was that this issue was one of great importance to the survival of the environmental movement, yet one that was not being adequately addressed within such organizations.

Human Diversity: My Beginning

Simply being a part of a cultural minority does not make one an expert on diversity.
Cynthia Bohannon-Brown

As an African-American, female environmental educator, I am embarking on a journey that could quite possibly change the direction of my life.

Late last year, I joined the task force of a prominent birding organization in Georgia. This group of members was charged with identifying the direction of the organization for the next 20 years! Wow, what an exciting challenge and an honor to be part of such a ground-breaking initiative.

Initially, I assumed that I would work on issues involving education. However that thought was soon squashed. Instead, I was encouraged to address diversity. I thought to myself "What in the world do I know about diversity? Was I chosen for this assignment because I am Black and the only minority member of the task force?" I was a little disappointed because I really wanted something more challenging :) !!