After three decades of working with people and nature as an anthropologist and being a writer, I decided to combine these two passions to help the people most affected by biodiversity loss to be heard. I believe we need to hear more diverse voices in the field of biodiversity conservation, not just those of experts and scientists. There is a particular lack of first-person accounts from women and from local people living closest to nature.
Our storytellers’ voices are inherently new and creative. Their stories open doors to new ways of seeing in a world usually dominated by powerful systems and powerful people. In learning to share their stories, many of our storytellers have gone on to successful careers in environmental work. Please consider adding your voice to theirs by submitting a story, volunteering or making a donations.
Tara Waters Lumpkin, PhD
