Fostering nature programs to be intentionally inclusive

What is intentionally inclusive programming and why do we host these programs here at Conner Prairie? 

Historically, there’s been a lack of representation and diversity in most nature-based programs and settings, including scientific research, conservation efforts, and among casual nature enthusiasts. In Conner Prairie’s May 2024 podcast, This is Problematic, we dug into the history of ornithology, the scientific study of birds. Many scientific pursuits, including ornithology, have a problematic history regarding how knowledge is collected, appropriated, and shared. This has led to a lack of diverse representation in many scientific communities, both in professional and casual settings. Many groups, such as Black AF in Stem who founded Black Birders Week, work hard to change the narrative by uplifting folks from traditionally marginalized communities who are working in the fields of STEM, conservation, and nature-based programs. These intentionally inclusive endeavors ensure that nature-based programs and scientific studies engage a broad audience. 

The year 2024 has seen a variety of intentionally inclusive nature-based programming here at Conner Prairie, providing opportunities for historically underrepresented groups to engage with nature. In May 2024, we hosted Indiana’s first Black Birders Week, a week-long program dedicated to uplifting Black nature enthusiasts while highlighting the visibility of Black birders in nature. We welcomed everyone who identifies as BIPOC, allies, and those who enjoy an inclusive outdoor experience. It was a successful week with a mix of in-person and virtual events. At the week’s conclusion, we hosted a Pride Hike to celebrate the intersectionality of Pride month with Black Birders Week. 

Leaning into the Let’s Go Birding Together programs, hosted by the national Audubon Society, we hosted an inclusive nature hike to enjoy birds together and build relationships. Civic Season, a nationally organized movement to learn about the past in order to shape the future, ran from Juneteenth to July 4, 2024. At Conner Prairie, we hosted a mix of in-person and virtual events, including nature-based programs to engage with the community through the lens of “civic love.” Check out our 2024 lineup and be sure to visit in 2025 for more events. One more program to highlight this year: a birding Big Sit coming up this October. This free program for Every One and Every Body, is part of Birdability Week 2024. Birdability Week is an annual celebration dedicated to birders with disabilities and other health concerns. It serves as a platform to share resources and ideas, fostering an accessible, inclusive, and welcoming birding community.

Program feedback drives our planning 

At Conner Prairie, we believe in the power of feedback to shape dynamic and impactful experiences. Black Birders Week is a prime example of how community insights drive our planning to create an event that resonates with participants. Here’s a look at the highlights of Black Birders Week 2024 and what we’re envisioning for 2025, inspired by the voices of our guests.

The 2024 iteration of Black Birders Week at Conner Prairie celebrated the intersection of nature, education, and representation. This year’s programming included guided bird walks, a community book discussion in partnership with Indiana Humanities, and activities designed to engage all ages in birding and ways to make it more inclusive.

One of the standout moments was our community book discussion, where Black birders shared their unique perspectives on being outdoors and the challenges of inclusivity and safety in natural spaces. Attendees expressed how powerful it was to hear directly from BIPOC folks who shared their experiences of birding while Black.

Our goal was to cultivate a welcoming environment that celebrated diversity while deepening the connection between our community and the natural world. Based on surveys and real-time feedback, we noticed a strong appreciation for events that focused on community and relationship-building, and an expressed desire for more hands-on activities that are accessible to guests of all ages. 

As we turn our sights to 2025, we’re incorporating what we learned from this year’s feedback to make Black Birders Week even more engaging and impactful. Next year, we plan to offer three varieties of guided bird walks, as well as beautiful bird-themed play invitations in our education spaces. We learned that our audience deeply valued storytelling as a way to understand cultural ties to birding and nature. In response, next year, in addition to a Community Book Discussion, we will have invitations highlighting mentors in the Black birding community, such as Christian Cooper, Nicole Jackson, BlackAFinStem, and many more. 

We’re excited to build on the successes of 2024 and look forward to bringing you an even more enriching Black Birders Week in 2025! Please save the date for Black Birders Week 2025!

Why birding?

Many research studies show that time spent in nature can provide health benefits for humans. According to the National Wildlife Federation, playing in dirt can improve the immune system and improve mood. National Geographic reports that forest bathing can reduce stress and reduce mental fatigue. Birding is no exception: time spent observing and appreciating birds has been shown to increase feelings of wellbeing, reduce anxiety, inspire curiosity, and more according to The Mindful Birding Network. 

In addition to birding being good for us, birding itself can act as a gateway to nature appreciation and a conservation mindset. First, an observer may come to love observing birds: noting their beautiful colors, intricate songs, and fascinating movements. Throughout the year, birds arrive and depart depending on if they are seasonal migrants or those who overwinter in the community. Next, a birder may start to notice the habitats in which the birds live: serene rivers, swaying forests, or colorful prairies. Once you notice birds, it’s hard not to notice them. The same goes for their habitat: once you identify a particular tree or plant that a bird frequents, you begin to notice those plants in other places. A love for and appreciation for birds and their habitat grows. And when something threatens those habitats, such as construction or pollution, some birders are driven to stand up for the birds and their habitat to protect them. Simply the act of watching birds becomes a conservation mindset. Alex of Outdoor Afro Indianapolis, an ally in inclusive nature programming, reminds everyone of the importance of “conservation through recreation.”

Call to Action: uplift inclusive nature programs in your community

Nature should be a space where everyone feels welcome and represented. Inclusive nature programs create opportunities for diverse voices to be heard and help build stronger, more connected communities. At Conner Prairie, we’re dedicated to providing events that invite everyone into the conversation. We invite you to participate in our inclusive nature programs. Experience events like Black Birders Week, where we explore the wonders of birding while highlighting underrepresented voices in natural spaces. Attend our guided nature walks, Pride Hike, Sunset Strolls and community book discussions, Big Sit, and Civic Season programs—each designed to foster a deeper connection to nature.

If you’ve attended an event that inspired you, share it with others! Word of mouth is one of the most powerful ways to spread the message that nature is for everyone. Bring friends and family to our programs or share what you learned online. Your voice helps amplify these experiences and makes a difference.

Advocate for inclusivity in nature wherever you are. Whether it’s by supporting local parks and nature centers, uplifting Black and underrepresented voices in natural spaces, or simply inviting more people outdoors, your actions matter. Together, we can create welcoming natural environments for everyone.