great illustration 1

This is a powerful and effective use of a graphic image to make an extremely important point. Congratulations to Keri.

The perception I have -- and correct me please if I am wrong -- is that the great majority of us North American environmentalists are rather well off, comparatively, with more wealth and education and leisure and comfort than the majority of our fellow citizens. That is certainly the impression given by such mainline environmental organizations as Sierra Club and Audubon (which I admire greatly, and of which I am a member). Is it not logical to assume therefore that we are somewhat out of touch with our underprivileged brothers and sisters?

I am very grateful for this Grist series on poverty, because it suggests important ethical questions: Are our environmental goals meant to help the poor and underprivileged as well as ourselves? Have we truly taken their particular interests into account? Is well-intentioned environmental activism frustrated by the lack of cooperation from low-income people, who feel that their interests have not been addressed?

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  1. notoptomistic Posted 2:23 am
    03 Mar 2006

    caniscandida on great illustrationI share the impression that environmentalists tend to have more affluence and leisure, but this is certainly not true of those who take the low-paying local non-profit positions.  What disturbs me is the determined stand against political activism in many groups that focus on birding, botanizing, and hiking. I think it is the ads for all the expensive gear and trips, and the idea that birding is primarily a competitive sport, that are most responsible for the impression that many who enjoy nature are most concerned with protecting a personal playground. Although I understand the desire to have fun and not get involved in discouraging political fights, the other side is well organized and willing to do what it takes. However, I have to say that my thoughts on this subject were developed in the Chicago area, where there are many activists and a wonderful program of restoring and saving natural areas, which everybody, rich and poor, can enjoy.  In the very white and conservative rural Wisconsin area where I am now semi-retired, and where the landscape itself is beautiful, there are very few parks or preserves or naturalist organizations of any kind whatsoever; the DNR spends something like 90% of its budget on hunting and fishing with little development of trails or restoration projects.  Since both the economically pressed and the affluent owners of vacation homes seem to support the hunting, snowmobiling, power boats, etc., it seems that politics, race, and lack of will to change things are greater factors than income.

    Barbara

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