News

In a time of unsettling shifts in national priorities, marked by attacks on established civil rights protections, the vilification of foreign identities, and a general erosion of inclusivity, it is imperative to reaffirm CLCC’s unwavering commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, justice, and access (DEI). These are not merely buzzwords; they are pillars of our organization and our vision for a thriving Connecticut.

When I sought a career path that aligned with my values, it was CLCC that stood out to me for its clear, public, and active dedication to amplifying community voices—all voices. We are driven by a powerful mission: to elevate and strengthen land conservation in Connecticut. Yet, we understand that the strength of our movement lies in its diversity. The diversity of people is just as important as the diversity in our landscapes. We reject the notion that land conservation should be a homogenous space, in any form.

Leading with Intention

DEI is not an add-on or a talking point at CLCC. It is woven into the fabric of our organization, permeating our strategic plan, staff meetings, and board discussions. It is the guiding principle behind our community conservation programs and initiatives.

• DEI Workshops: CLCC hosts workshops and training on topics such as Land Justice for Land Trusts, Culturally Responsive Stewardship, and Equitable Governance in Land Trusts. These workshops provide a safe space for dialogue and learning, helping participants deepen their understanding of DEI and its importance in conservation. 
• Affordable Housing: CLCC is actively working to address the issue of affordable housing by hosting and convening conversations between land conservation organizations and affordable housing groups on unified stages such as our upcoming Connecticut Land Conservation Conference. This year, for example, we will be hearing from the Litchfield County Center for Housing Opportunity and the Southeastern Connecticut Community Land Trust.
• Celebrating Indigenous Peoples: CLCC is committed to honoring the history and knowledge of Indigenous peoples and tribal nations. For example, we are hosting a conference workshop titled “Partnering with Indigenous Communities to Care for Land and Water,” led by allies at the Eastern Pequot Tribal Council, Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation, the Alliance for the Mystic River Watershed, and the Avalonia Land Conservancy. And we continue to engage and support events such as the Saukiog Harvest Festival of Native American, Indigenous, and Cross Cultures each fall in Hartford. 
• Farmland Access: CLCC conducted research on farmland access for Black farmers and farmers of color, revealing significant barriers such as historical injustices, economic disparities, and sociocultural challenges. This research is informing our efforts to promote equitable access to farmland and support BIPOC farmers.

Building a Stronger, More Inclusive Conservation Movement

CLCC believes that building a strong conservation movement requires strengthening the entire community. Just as a well-rounded fitness regimen targets different muscle groups, our work fosters a multifaceted strength—the strength of community. We recognize the urgent need to apply an intersectional lens to conservation, and we have already witnessed the transformative power of this approach.

Through our Bird & Hike program with CT Land Trusts, we are connecting people with nature in their own way. This program offers community groups the chance to engage with nature in a welcoming environment co-hosted by their local land trust by intentionally setting the stage for a judgment-free day of birding. In the coming years, CLCC will significantly expand its community-centered conservation efforts through our conference, workshops, outings, and collaborations.

Centering Marginalized Voices

As we pursue funding and engagement opportunities, we will remain focused on centering the voices of those who have been historically marginalized. We will uplift their experiences, listen to their needs, and celebrate their identities. Our community-first approach has been consistently praised by our partners, who appreciate the genuine sense of inclusion and meaningful collaboration in our work. 

Join Us in Building a Just and Equitable Future

In the face of adversity, we will not waver. We will continue to champion DEI principles, knowing that a truly resilient and sustainable future can only be built on a foundation of equity and justice for all. I am excited about our programming in 2025, and can’t wait to meet more of you at the Conference and out on the trails as your authentic selves.

Jovan Bryan
Community Conservation Coordinator