News

February marked another step forward in our commitment to fostering a safe, inclusive, and respectful environment within the Connecticut Land Conservation Council and the land trust community.

Beginning with the 2024 Connecticut Land Conservation Conference on March 23, CLCC will implement a new Code of Conduct. This policy is designed to reflect the values and behaviors that we uphold as an organization and that we expect from all participants at CLCC-hosted programs and events, including a commitment to:

• Promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion, and prioritizing the well-being of all participants;
• Creating a community environment that supports integrity, honesty, care, and respect toward others (even those with different views, beliefs, lifestyles, and backgrounds); and
• Modeling zero-tolerance of harassment of any kind.

The decision to create and implement this written policy comes in response to recent incidents, including disrespectful and inappropriate comments directed towards Black, Indigenous, and People of Color made during conversations at events in which CLCC has participated or hosted. Whether overt forms of racism, sexism, or other harassment or more subtle and casual slights and digs, these hurtful experiences create an atmosphere of tension and discomfort that undermines our conservation goals. 

The intent of the Code of Conduct is to set a norm for how the conservation community should strive for healthier engagement in the future and to guide individuals toward behavior that ensures the enjoyment and comfort of all attendees at CLCC events. The code will be continuously reviewed, adapted, and incorporated into all of our programming. We welcome your feedback and suggestions, as always.

At CLCC, we are committed to addressing such behavior and ensuring that our events are welcoming and respectful spaces for all participants. The Code of Conduct is a step forward in our steadfast commitment to achieve that goal. We encourage you and members of your land trust and community to familiarize yourself with the full Code of Conduct and use it for your events and policies.

Thank you for your ongoing support and commitment to creating a welcoming and inclusive environment to ensure that everyone everywhere enjoys all of the benefits nature offers.