“This Country Has Gone off the Rails”- Woke Rebranding Sparks Overhaul of Bird Species’ Names Amid Racism Concerns

Amy LewisNov 6, 2023

Minute Read

The American Ornithological Society has announced they will rename hundreds of bird species. They intend to replace human names with “imaginative” titles that reflect bird traits. This has stirred both praise and skepticism. It has also ignited a passionate discourse on social media.

Birds to Sport Nature-Inspired Monikers

The winds of change are blowing through the aviaries of North America. The American Ornithological Society will give its feathered subjects new titles. These will celebrate their distinct identities and the environments they grace. They claim these new names will vividly illustrate each bird’s essence and place in the natural world.

Human Connections to Bird Names Fly Away

The American Ornithological Society aims to create a more inclusive community amongst bird watchers and scientists. They are committed to eradicating human-related monikers from the roster of common bird names. This bold move is a nod to the diverse flock of individuals who share a passion for ornithology, allowing for a universal sense of belonging.

Community’s Voice to Reshape Avian Identity

In a collaborative effort, the American Ornithological Society is inviting the general public to have a say in the renaming process of their winged counterparts. Currently, the specifics of the public’s participation are still in the planning stages. However, the Society anticipates rechristening 70 to 80 bird species, inviting ideas from all corners of the bird-loving world.

Renaming Takes Flight Amid Controversy

The initiative to revise names comes on the wings of intense discussions regarding the legacy of historical figures after whom many birds are named. Scientists and bird enthusiasts alike have applauded this progression towards bird naming. They have expressed relief and approval that the birds may finally get names representing their characteristics.

Birding Enthusiast Embraces the New Horizon

“I’m really excited about this change,” declared Corina Newsome, an ornithologist and a prominent figure initiating the Black Birders Week. Her voice, amongst others, has been influential in catalyzing this fresh approach to bird names. This idea was echoed by many in the community looking forward to the change.

New Names to Reflect Birds, Not People

Sushma Reddy, the Society’s secretary, stated, “We really want bird names to be about birds,” She stressed that this change is aimed at making bird-watching more accessible. The American Ornithological Society is inviting newcomers from diverse backgrounds to take part in the new naming process.

Bird-Watching Is A Universal Endeavor

Reddy further supported the inclusive nature of the field, stressing, “Birds are for everybody. Science is for everybody.” This declaration is something that the Society supports. They are trying to ensure that bird-watching is viewed as a hobby and a scientific pursuit open to all, without historical prejudices.

Turning a New Leaf on Historical Names

The Society also addresses the ethical implications of names tied to figures with oppressive histories. Their comprehensive strategy to strip all birds of human titles intends to acknowledge and correct past missteps. It will do this without stepping into the controversial debate over the legacies of historical personalities.

Descriptive Names to Aid Identification

The Society envisions future bird names to be practical and descriptive. In doing so, this will make it simpler for enthusiasts to spot and identify birds in nature. Kenn Kaufman expressed enthusiasm for this change. He claims he looks forward to bird names that paint a picture of their appearance or behavior.

Creativity Takes Flight in the Naming Process

Kaufman remarked, “It’s a great chance to come up with beautiful and evocative ways of describing the visual appearance, song, or habitat they live in.” His view captures the creative spirit that the renaming process aims to create. They are aiming to bring to life the unique attributes of each bird.

A Shift From Culturally Insensitive Names

The Society acknowledges the need for sensitivity, especially in cases where names are seen as derogatory or carry cultural insensitivity. The names of birds, such as the Eskimo curlew, are slated for reevaluation. Supporters argue this would be a huge step towards respect and cultural awareness.

Ornithologist Reflects on the Impact of Names

Newsome’s experience in academia revealed an intriguing pattern: “I noticed names that described species were easier to remember than species with an honorific name.” Her journey from memorization shows the impact that names can have on education and our relationship with nature.

Call for Renaming Met With Resistance

The case of McKown’s longspur illustrates the complexities of renaming. Back in 2018, Robert Driver’s proposal to rename the bird sparked controversy due to the namesake’s controversial past. Although initially rejected, this episode was the starting point for the ongoing discourse and eventual policy shift within the Society.

Outrage and Mockery

However, a wave of criticism has met this decision. One user said, “LOL, bigoted bird names,” and accused the Society of losing touch with reality. Some commentators branded those behind the changes as “birdbrains.” This polarized response highlights the emotional and cultural underpinnings of seemingly innocent scientific classifications.

From Ornithology to “Orwellian Word Magic”

One user compared the change to “Orwellian word magic.” They implied that the Society’s actions were an overreach like censorship or manipulation of language. This scathing criticism suggests a deep-seated skepticism of the movement towards inclusivity in environmental science. They framed the renaming as a manipulation of language and history.

Skeptics Question Priorities in Bird-Naming Debate

Voices from the sidelines of the renaming debate have expressed exasperation. They believe that there are “more important issues to be addressed. They are birds.” This user implied that such measures are trivial or misplaced in the grand scheme of societal challenges. This sentiment echoes a broader question of prioritizing issues within conservation.

The Society’s Initiative Meets Sarcasm

Sarcastically praising the initiative, one observer mused, “Equity even among the birds, how wonderful it will be for all. This country has gone off the rails from top to bottom.” This statement underscores the cynicism of some members of the public. For them, the quest for inclusive language is seen as an absurdity that reflects broader societal problems.

Renaming Birds Seen as International Farce

The renaming effort has stirred concerns beyond the domain of bird enthusiasts and scientists. Some fear that “this is making us a joke around the world.” They argue this focus might tarnish America’s international image. They suggest the ripple effects of this decision may extend well beyond its borders and potentially affect the country’s reputation for scientific seriousness.