Number: 2010-01
WHEREAS, to be successful in achieving conservation goals, the American conservation movement must reflect the diversity of socio-economic, cultural, ethnic, age, geographic and demographic factors that make up the nation as a whole; and
WHEREAS, successful conservation movements are networks built on relationships of trust, communication and shared resources, with inspirational leaders who actively recruit and foster collaboration to achieve clear outcomes, and encourage equitable participation at all levels; and
WHEREAS, creating a long-term commitment to conservation in diverse communities across the nation requires the weaving together of networks of partners that work at the nexus of natural resource protection, social equity and economic opportunity; and
WHEREAS, the National Wildlife Federation works to enhance diversity within its affiliate network as well as within each affiliate organization in order to both strengthen the existing wildlife conservation movement and engage new individuals and diverse organizations;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the National Wildlife Federation, at its annual meeting assembled April 8 – 10, 2010 in Houston, Texas, hereby supports conservation organizations developing and engaging diverse leadership throughout the national conservation movement; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the National Wildlife Federation supports expanding the conservation movement by developing durable and relevant relationships with leaders of groups whose core missions relate to social equity, job creation, quality education, green economic development, livable communities and public health; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the National Wildlife Federation supports the conservation movement bringing together and enabling a broad range of diversity perspectives through appropriate training; recruitment of new leadership, especially among youth; partnering with a wide range of organizations; and relevant and effective networking; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the National Wildlife Federation supports the conservation movement creating and supporting a robust community of practice among conservation organizations that allows staff and volunteer leaders to strengthen the network and learn from each other by using online technology, coaching, workshops and regional gatherings; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the National Wildlife Federation supports conservation organizations developing a leadership pipeline of young people who represent the racial and cultural diversity of each state to become leaders in the conservation movement.