Continuing our series focusing on the contributions of historically under-recognized groups to conservation and environmental advocacy, this month we are featuring ornithologist Corina Newsome, whose work as a co-founder of Black Birders Week brought her to national attention in the summer of 2020. She and several other Black scientists organized the event in response to an incident in New York’s Central Park in which a Black birder’s confrontation with a white woman who refused to put her dog on a leash as required by park rules went viral. Black Birders Week was conceived as a way to not only highlight Black contributions to STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics), but also normalize the fact that Black people ARE birders, scientists, and naturalists. Presentations addressed the Black experience in nature, noting in particular the lack of representation in the birding community that has often made Black people feel uncomfortable and less willing to enjoy the outdoors and nature.

From a young age, Ms. Newsome was interested in wildlife and nature and spent hours poring over old National Geographic issues at her grandmother’s house. But her concept of the career opportunities that might be available to her in the field were limited: all the scientists she saw in books and on TV were white, and it wasn’t until she was a teenager that she encountered a Black person who was working as a zookeeper. She was encouraged to do an internship at her local zoo, and only then realized that a career as a wildlife biologist was possible for her.

Ms. Newsome studied zoology as an undergraduate and began her professional career as a zookeeper at the Nashville Zoo, but was inspired to pursue graduate studies in ornithology after learning about Blue Jays in a field ornithology course. Her research specialty centers around the conservation of MacGillivray's Seaside Sparrows, a species threatened by climate change, sea level rise, and predation that lives in the coastal marshes of South Carolina, Georgia, and Florida. She has shared personal experiences of feeling uncomfortable while conducting her research in the field, and always makes sure that her binoculars and other equipment are visible to make her appear more official and avoid possible confrontations with people who may not think she belongs.

In the fall of 2020, she also became Georgia Audubon Society’s Community Engagement Manager, and has founded several programs aimed at encouraging high school students from underrepresented demographics to consider wildlife-centered careers. Her mission is “to center the perspectives and leadership of historically marginalized communities in wildlife conservation, environmental education, and exploration of the natural world.”

We at Duval Audubon Society recognize the value of diverse voices, and are committed to creating an equitable and inclusive environment. Our activities are open to everyone who is interested in birds and nature - all are welcome!