Established in 2020, Black Birders Week is a nationwide celebration of diversity in the outdoors, highlighting the contributions of Black birders and naturalists while promoting inclusivity in natural spaces. The theme for this year’s event, celebrated nationwide from May 25 to 31, is “Grounded in Community” and will focus on the collective joy and power of the Black community in the outdoors.

“As an avid birder of color, I deeply understand the significance of safety and community in birding and exploring new natural spaces,” said Tamara Jolly, Community Initiatives Manager at ADI, a program of the Adirondack North Country Association (ANCA).

John Brown Farm, the former home and final resting place of abolitionist John Brown, offers exceptional birding opportunities for beginning and experienced birders alike. Event participants will learn the basics of birding through a variety of family-friendly activities, including guided walks led by guest naturalists. Birding experience is not necessary, and all are encouraged to attend. The event also includes tours of John Brown Farm and its Timbuctoo exhibit, which highlight African American roots in the Adirondacks.

Described by founders as a “bold and unapologetic reclamation of the Black community’s role in environmental spaces — a powerful celebration of our enduring connection to the earth and a resounding call to dismantle the oppressive systems that have excluded us,” Black Birders Week is about more than just birding. The celebration aims to reshape narratives and support a movement for liberation, healing and the transformative power of nature as a tool for resistance and reclamation. Learn more about Black Birders Week at www.blackafinstem.com.

ADI and JBL! strive to foster that connection and community spirit here in the Adirondacks while empowering new and diverse stewards of the Park, its wild places, and its communities.

The Black Birders event occurs on the weekend of the Northern New York Audubon (NNYA) Great Adirondack Birding Celebration on Friday, May 30 and Saturday, May 31. A Birders Mixer, hosted by NNYA, will take place at Hotel Saranac in Saranac Lake on Friday evening, and additional free birding-related activities will be offered at Paul Smith’s College Visitor Interpretive Center on Saturday afternoon. Hotel Saranac is offering discounted rooms for Black Birders Week participants.

For the event schedule and other information, visit bit.ly/nny-black-birders-event. Registration is encouraged but not required. Contact Tamara Jolly at tjolly@adirondack.org with questions about the event.

Existing at the intersection of environmental and transformational justice, the Adirondack Diversity Initiative (ADI) works to make the Adirondacks a welcoming and inclusive place for both residents and visitors while ensuring a vital and sustainable Adirondack Park for future generations. ADI is based at ANCA’s office in Saranac Lake.