A male elegant trogon displays some of the colors that have made it very attractive for birders.
The Tucson Audubon Society has been working on dropping the controversial "Audubon" word from its name, joining similar organizations across the country that have done or are doing the same thing.
John James Audubon was a famous artist and naturalist who was born in 1785 and died in 1851. He became famous for his detailed illustrations and other works, including "The Birds of America" in the 1800s.
Countless places and groups are named after him, including the National Audubon Society which was founded in 1905, and the Tucson Audubon Society which was established in 1949.
However, Audubon was also an anti-abolitionist who bought, owned and sold enslaved people, and many groups want to shake off that moniker's association and move into the future with a more descriptive and inclusive name.
"The general population is not really familiar with the name 'Audubon.' So many of us as we're out in the world running errands or whatever we do and people ask where we work, almost all of us, after we say, 'we work at Tucson Audubon' we immediately explain to people what that means," says Melissa Fratello, the executive director at Tucson Audubon.
"We are a bird conservation and engagement organization."
Additionally, she says, it is correct to reflect and analyze the continued use of the Audubon name, given the aspects of his life outside of his art and contributions to the understanding of nature
"There's a lot of discussion around Audubon being a man of his time and people owned slaves then. He didn't just own slaves, he was actively anti-abolitionist. Vehemently, unapologetically anti-abolitionist. He did desecrate the graves of indigenous people and supported eugenesis theory," adds Fratello.
The Tucson Audubon Society had thought it might decide on a new name at the end of 2024 or beginning of 2025, but the organization now expects to announce the way forward this fall in connection with the group's 75th anniversary celebration.
"It just makes all the sense in the world to make a change for the future to be able to move us all in our mission to inspire people to protect and enjoy birds, you know, no matter what background you're from," says Luke Safford, director of engagement at Tucson Audubon.
Melissa Fratello says one top contender for the name change will include "bird alliance" which has been adopted in Chicago, Oregon, and New York City.
However, she adds that more discussions will be held before a new name is officially chosen and released.
Tucson Audubon's 75th Anniversary celebration is scheduled to be held in November.
In spite of the controversy connected to this issue, the National Audubon Society has decided to keep its current name.
One of the most common residents in Chiricahua National Monument is the Mexican Jay. The birds are known to be communicative and social with visitors but are encouraged to be left alone.
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