The Road Ahead

As President Trump returns to office, we are reminded that while political outcomes shift, Audubon’s mission to protect birds and the places they need does not. Whether in the United States or across the hemisphere, our commitment to our mission is unwavering. This election brings a new set of challenges, but it also reaffirms something we have always known: Birds have the power to unite us across borders. In this moment, that unity is critical for driving the conservation and climate action that birds and people everywhere depend upon.

At Audubon, we take pride in our role as a nonpartisan convener across the Americas. While the distinctive hues of the Red Knot and Blue-winged Warbler recall the colors of different political parties in the United States, their migrations remind us that birds move freely across our skies. Likewise, Audubon’s membership spans this vast hemisphere, and while our members hold different political views, they are unified by their love of birds and commitment to the natural world. This shared passion allows us to build bridges and find common ground, no matter the political landscape. 

Policy is one of the most effective tools for creating lasting change. From local actions to international agreements, science-based policies are key to protecting birds and their habitats. Whether advocating for stronger migratory bird protections in the United States, restoring critical habitats in Central America, or working with Canadian partners to safeguard the boreal forest, our policy efforts are critical to scaling our impact. These solutions are more urgent than ever as we confront the dual crises of climate change and biodiversity loss.

Audubon has weathered political changes for more than a century, adapting through 30 U.S. presidential administrations while staying true to our mission. From the Migratory Bird Treaty Act in 1918 to recent bipartisan victories like the Neotropical Migratory Bird Conservation Act, our history proves that conservation transcends political and geographical boundaries. As we enter this new political chapter, we remain focused on building partnerships that unite diverse stakeholders. Our work will continue, and we are ready to move forward. Whether restoring coastal wetlands or protecting migratory corridors, our success is rooted in collaboration and a shared commitment to safeguarding the natural world.

Challenges and opportunities lie ahead as we ensure that critical policies, such as the U.S. Inflation Reduction Act and international climate agreements, are protected and leveraged effectively. By working together across the hemisphere, Audubon will continue to lead on conservation and climate action, regardless of shifts in political leadership.

With your ongoing support, we will keep working toward our guiding star of bending the bird curve—halting and ultimately reversing the alarming decline of bird populations across the Americas. Together, we will build a future where both birds and people thrive.

This piece originally ran in the Winter 2024 issue as the Audubon View. To receive our print magazine, become a member by making a donation today.