I have dedicated my life to protecting and advocating for the rights of our precious wildlife, as well as for you. This work is arduous, and I never want to belittle anyone for feeling that it is overwhelming. The recent news of the cruelty inflicted upon a beautiful young wolf in Wyoming a few weeks ago has brought me back to the harsh reality of what wolf hunting truly entails, and who the wolf hunters really are. The sounds of snowmobiles, the fury of men, the guns, the involvement of dogs, the blood – it is a reality that cuts deep and leaves wounds that have still not fully healed. To witness such barbarity evokes a profound sense of grief and outrage. “This can’t really be happening” is what I thought. The agencies, even famous biologists like Doug Smith aren’t making this about hunting, right? This isn’t a hunting story. But they did. And by doing so, they legitimized that cruelty in any form towards wildlife is acceptable. They aren’t out here telling reporters that we have to balance wolf hunters and Representatives like Boebart and Tiffany who don’t believe in anything but what the high paying gun violence lobby and trophy hunters tell them with decency? They don’t even care about school shootings. It is deeply unsettling to know that in 2024, the last of our dwindling wildlife is being subjected to unimaginable suffering for the sake of sport, violence, or, in this particular case, pure psychopathy. Harvested. Conserved. Managed. by being run over by a snowmobile and taken to a bar for sadist show and tell by a stakeholder. But your comments regarding gun helicopters don’t matter to the boards or agencies. The fact that such atrocities are still legal in 2024 is a testament to the failure of themselves and wildlife management overall. This is the gold standard of wildlife management. It’s outrageous that an entire agency of supposedly well-meaning biologists, researchers, and natural resource managers and alleged ethical hunters blatantly ignored public comments regarding our concerns of these very practices being legal and unenforceable. Nope. They went to private meetings to somehow shape a wildlife plan the way the agency intended it to be long before this “transparency”. The so-called “science” with “consideration” of all public comment is what shaped exactly what Cody Roberts did, and the next hundred in line will do. Now add the dismissal of our lawsuit, the passing of horrific wildlife-related bills, including congressional delisting. Enough is enough. All of these decision-makers and the wildlife agencies need to be held accountable for their actions and take immediate steps to protect the wildlife they are tasked with safeguarding. Can you blame us for thinking photo sessions and being beaten to death, gassing puppies or poaching without penalty might endanger the wolf? This Wyoming wolf case and the hundred like it aren’t about hunting, or science, anthropomorphizing or management… We all know damn well it’s about ethical responsibility and the values we tell ourselves we uphold as a society. We all know. Every single person, children, even other animals know that we all experience pain, suffering, and emotions., grief, hardships and triumphs, love, pleasure and trauma. It is my moral duty to protect wolves from anyone that doesn’t know that’s true. But that’s what makes predator hunters and the people who cater to them different than the majority of us.
They know, too.
PS It's crucial to stand up for our endangered wildlife and the advocates who tirelessly work to protect them. We understand the challenges and frustrations, but together we can make a positive difference. If it all becomes overwhelming, remember that support is available, and we are here for you. Check out our new resilience program , events and bold action we are taking. - because your well-being matters to us and our community. And we will save your place without judgement when the gloves are ready to come off again.
Endangered Species Day 2024: May 17th
CELEBRATE SAVING SPECIES
Every year on the third Friday in May, thousands of people around the world participate in Endangered Species Day by celebrating, learning about, and taking action to protect threatened and endangered species. This global day of action and celebration was created and founded by David Robinson and the Endangered Species Coalition in 2006, and has continued ever since.
On Endangered Species Day 2024, wildlife refuges, gardens, schools, libraries, museums, community groups, nonprofits, and individuals will hold special programs or events. People around the world participate in these activities and others. Join us in celebrating Endangered Species Day on Friday, May 17th and throughout the month of May!
🔥 Upcoming Event Alert: Fireside Chat for Endangered Species Day! 🔥
You’re invited to join our virtual Fireside Chat on Endangered Species Day, where we’ll explore the crucial topic of protecting species and the Endangered Species Act. Our esteemed panel will shed light on the significance of local initiatives in fortifying animal protection laws and nurturing conservation efforts within our communities. Discover how local actions can lead to significant state and federal outcomes, including changes in wildlife policy. GLWA was able to create ESA momentum this year!
When: May 16th, 6pm CST
Where: Online VIA Google Meet joining info
Video call link: https://meet.google.com/gxi-qzad-nfr
Or dial: (US) +1 240-812-1195 PIN: 462 004 372#
More phone numbers: https://tel.meet/gxi-qzad-nfr?pin=7838748455101
For other events nationwide for Endangered Species day visit www.endangered.org
🌟 Exciting Announcement: Introducing Our New Resiliency Program for Advocates!
“Howling through Challenges: Resilience and Self-Care for Wildlife Advocates.”
Come Learn Why You Should Care About Taking Care Of You to Protect Wildlife
This unique program aims to empower animal and wildlife advocates by providing comprehensive support in areas such as education, stress management, emotional support, and work-life balance. In today’s world, advocating for wildlife conservation can be both rewarding and challenging. This new program is designed to equip advocates with the tools and resources they need to navigate advocacy effectively while maintaining well-being. Whether you’re a seasoned advocate or new to the cause, this event offers valuable insights and strategies for sustained well-being and impactful advocacy. Please come hear what it’s all about and how supporting our advocates is so important to us at GLWA.
When: May 23rd, 6pm-7pm CST
Where: Online VIA Google Meet joining info
Video call link: https://meet.google.com/gxi-qzad-nfr
Or dial: (US) +1 240-812-1195 PIN: 462 004 372#
More phone numbers: https://tel.meet/gxi-qzad-nfr?pin=783874845510
Special Presentation: Get the Lead Out Summer Series JUNE
Mike Stake: Condors in California to Eagles in Wisconsin. Why eliminating lead is crucial to recovery of birds of prey and scavenger birds.
Mike Stake, Ventanna Wildlife Society, CA
Tom Arnett, WI Wildlife Rehabilitators, WI
Lead is the number one cause of death for condors. Science has clearly shown that condors are primarily exposed to lead by ingesting lead shot or fragments of lead bullets when feeding on carcasses. Many condors have died after ingesting lead in this way and many more have been medically treated for lead toxicity.Lead ammunition affects the health of wildlife and humans. Condors will remain an endangered species until the lead threat is addressed. Reducing and eventually eliminating the use of lead ammunition is an essential step in condor recovery.
When: June 13th 6pm CST
Where: Online VIA Google Meet joining info
Video call link: https://meet.google.com/gxi-qzad-nfr
Or dial: (US) +1 240-812-1195 PIN: 462 004 372#
More phone numbers: https://tel.meet/gxi-qzad-nfr?pin=783874845510
HAPPY MOTHERS DAY TO YOU!
“She is the creature of life, the giver of life, and the giver of abundant love, care, and protection. Such are the great qualities of a mother.” –Ama H. Vanniarachchy, archeologist and scholar
Tech News
Exciting Changes on the Horizon!
- 🚀 New Website Incoming 🚀
Get ready for an all-new website experience! We have been hard at work revamping our online home to better serve our community. Stay tuned for a fresh look and enhanced features coming soon. - 🌐 Improved Management System on the Way 🌐
We’re gearing up to introduce a revamped management system to streamline our operations. Prepare for increased efficiency and seamless collaboration as we embrace this exciting change. - 📺 Live Meetings and Vibrant Social Media 🎉
Join us on YouTube and TikTok for live meetings and dynamic social media communications. Engage with us in a whole new way as we bring our advocacy efforts to these platforms.
Stay tuned for these impactful updates as we strive to elevate our outreach and engagement!
Trust the Science Act Passes House
Congressman Mark Pocan
“This is just a crazy member of Congress, who doesn’t believe in science, who is trying to undercut the process,” Pocan said, referencing Boebert.
Read the Act
In a recent move, the U.S. House passed a Republican-sponsored bill to remove gray wolves from the endangered species list in many parts of the country. Despite objections from the Biden administration, the bill secured a narrow victory with a 209-205 vote. The bill, championed by Colorado Republican Rep. Lauren Boebert and backed by Wisconsin’s House Republicans, received unanimous support from the GOP members present, while Democrats Rep. Mark Pocan and Gwen Moore opposed it. President Biden is against this bill. Let’s make sure to join our bi-weekly fireside chats and watch our email to stop this bill dead in its tracks.
Join us in creating champions with a positive message. Check how your Congressional Representatives voted. If they voted against the bill, reach out and thank them for standing up for wolves. Share a brief personal story about the ESA and wolves to keep the message positive. While you are at it, thank President Biden for taking a stand against this bill early. To contact the President of the United States, you can call the White House switchboard at 202-456-1414. Keep in mind that you may be directed to leave a message or speak with a representative, depending on the volume of calls.
- Recognition and gratitude for standing up for wolves and upholding the Endangered Species Act
- Wolves hold a special place as symbols of untamed nature that should be preserved
- The Endangered Species Act is crucial for protecting wolves and preserving their natural habitats
- Appreciation for listening to constituents and championing wildlife preservation
- Commendation for dedication to upholding the Endangered Species Act and advocating for wolf protection
Wildlife Day 2024!
🌿 Wildlife Day Celebration: A Success for Rights of Nature! 🐾
We’re thrilled to report that our recent Wildlife Day celebration advocating for the Rights of Nature was a resounding success! Thank you to everyone who joined us in this important initiative. If you missed out or want to relive the highlights, you can watch the event recording here.
As we continue our commitment to environmental stewardship and wildlife protection, we’re excited to announce we will be meeting with our newly elected officials following the primary. It’s an opportunity to engage with them on critical wildlife conservation issues and ensure our voices are heard.
Mark your calendars and stay tuned for our next event: Vote Wild! Let’s keep the momentum going as we work together to protect our planet’s precious wildlife.
Keep advocating, keep watching, and keep voting for a wilder world!
Great Lakes Wildlife Alliance 🌎🐾
BREAKING NEWS: GLWA LAWSUIT DISMISSED
DOUBLE YOUR IMPACT TODAY! DONATIONS MATCHED IN MAY
We have been fighting a legal battle over the WI wolf plan, in which all viewpoints are essential for the preservation of our environment and our wildlife. Unfortunately, we have suffered a loss in this case and are now faced with the daunting task of appealing the decision. As you can imagine, appealing a court decision is an expensive process, and we are in urgent need of financial assistance to cover the legal expenses. I am reaching out to you, my dear friends, with a plea for help. I humbly request your support in any way possible, whether it be through a monetary donation or by sharing this message with others who may be able to help. I firmly believe that we must stand up for what is right and just, and I will not give up on this fight. With your help, we can continue to work towards protecting our environment, our rights, and our wildlife.
Get Ready to Vote Wild and Make a Difference!
As we reflect on the challenges and victories in advocating for the protection of our precious wildlife, it’s clear that our collective efforts have made an impact. From raising awareness about the cruel reality of wolf hunting to celebrating the success of Endangered Species Day, we have shown that our voices matter.
As we embrace the exciting changes on the horizon – including a revamped website, an improved management system, and enhanced outreach through live meetings and vibrant social media – we are gearing up for a crucial initiative this summer.
Join us as we prepare to Vote Wild! Our mission is to ensure that wildlife-friendly policies and advocates’ voices are heard by engaging in the democratic process. Stay tuned for details on how you can get involved in this project and make a real difference for our planet’s precious wildlife.
Let’s harness the momentum from our recent successes and continue to advocate, inspire, and drive positive change. Together, we can create a wilder world where our environment and wildlife are protected for generations to come.
Thank you for your unwavering support, and get ready to make your voice heard as we strive to Vote Wild for wildlife!
Great Lakes Wildlife Alliance 🌎🐾
wiwolvesandwildlife.org 