NYC Audubon Picks New Name, Distances Itself From Slavery Past

NEW YORK CITY — The New York City Audubon has a new name — one that moves away from the racist past of its former namesake, James Audubon.

“After a multi-year process to assess the Audubon name and then to choose a new one, on June 5, 2024, the organization’s members voted to approve the new name, NYC Bird Alliance,” according to a statement on the organization's website.

The decision was made after input from more than 1,000 people, and picked from among 250 names suggested by our members and stakeholders, the organization said.

"The name “NYC Bird Alliance” highlights where we work and our focus on urban biodiversity. It underscores that we do not undertake our advocacy, conservation, science, and engagement work alone," they said.

The organization also explained the reason behind the name change:

“While we value John James Audubon’s contributions to art and ornithology, and the foundation he laid for an appreciation of nature and a conservation ethos in this country, we recognize that his views and actions towards people of color and Indigenous people were harmful and offensive — and that the harm continues today, presenting a barrier to people who might otherwise become involved in or support our work.”