Up to Table of Contents

Ahead to TWO PERSPECTIVES ON THE 2003 WORLD PARKS CONGRESS

VOTES FOR DIVERSITY

On 7 October, California voters recalled their governor and elected as his replacement an individual who may have many talents, but has no legislative experience. As a citizen of California, this outcome leaves me apprehensive. Nonetheless, I am heartened by estimates that nearly 60% of the state's 15.4 million registered voters participated in the election--California's highest voter turnout in a nonpresidential election in more than 20 years.

What California can accomplish with a participatory democracy, surely SCB can do much better.

Unlike some of the 135 candidates on California's recent ballot, all of the seven candidates for office in the 2004 SCB election are fully qualified to serve on the Board of Governors. Any combination of candidates will be an asset to our society, bringing new ideas and energy to an already diverse and committed board. As you read the candidates' statements, however, you will be exposed to the different trajectories along which the candidates would like to see SCB progress. The question is not whether our global community of conservation professionals will move forward, but how. What are your priorities for increasing conservation capacity with respect to geography and discipline, and which candidates best will serve your interests?

Please vote. You may submit your ballot electronically, or mail a paper ballot. It's fast, it's easy, and it's one of the most effective ways to influence SCB initiatives and operations.

As practicing conservation biologists, we often are asked to rationalize actions that feel intuitive. Most of us can reel off a list of ecological and economic justifications for protecting biological diversity, yet on some level we're puzzled that the objective requires explanation. I feel much the same way about voting--casting a ballot just seems like the right thing to do. But let me reiterate: voting in the SCB election is a simple, quick, effective mechanism to help shape both your society and your profession. And if nothing else convinces you, keep in mind that only a vote gives you the right to emote.

-- Erica Fleishman

Up to Table of Contents

Ahead to TWO PERSPECTIVES ON THE 2003 WORLD PARKS CONGRESS