SBS SPOTLIGHT
“SBS (Special bird service) is a space that helps me connect to my community & build intentional relationships with the natural world. It’s an event that gives me permission to slow down, be curious, & stay present.” - Parker Johnson
“Special Bird Service means a meeting, not only of like minds, but of bodies as well. Coming back from hibernation, it’s a joy to see others that look & sound like me, simply enjoying nature together.” - Kani Tsolo
ABOUT US
At Special Bird Service Society we aim to make nature more accessible, remove barriers, and challenge stereotypes present in the outdoors through birding, we're elevating people of colour and the 2SLGBTQ+ communities’ voices, history, and values in nature.
Through our commonly held values and an anti-discriminatory centred approach, we strive to normalize marginalized communities' use of the great outdoors. By existing together in nature, a greater rep-resentation occurs through the elevation of our voices, cultures and histories from within our communities, as part of a more complete story of the outdoors.
We provide access to a variety of safe, recreational, community health based, stress-reducing outdoor experiences. Such as, and not limited to; educational, informational workshops, guided birding walks, hikes, and community-building events.
PRINCIPLES
Through our commonly held values of ecological stewardship, relationship building, and mental health advocacy we hold space for generational knowledge transfers to take place, we exist as a challenge to the status quo, through a decolonial-centred focus on education, equity, diversity and inclusion in the outdoors, through to our collective culture beyond.
We’re reclaiming our experience with the outdoors as a historical healing space through nature-centred, community-building events.
OUR CAUSES
the work we do & what we do it for.
REPRESENTATION
HEALING
RECLAMATION
"NO BIRD WILL GO UNSEEN"
ENGAGE YOURSELF!
✰✰✰
Special Bird Service encourages everyone to join us and take time to collectively reclaim our experience with nature. We believe the most positive and long-lasting way we can succeed in our goals is when the change comes from within, and we want to empower each other to take an active role, so join us at out on the land. Learn more about the opportunities available near you, to lend your support and re-write an experience that has historically been taken away from BIPOC, Queer and marginalized communities.
JOINING AN EVENT
Every individual has the ability to motivate others and inspire true change. By joining an event, you become a crucial part of our movement by making sure that our mission is heard, with a far-reaching, & lasting impact.
To join us, check out our Facebook & Instagram for updates about upcoming events!
To join our emailing list, check out the Newsletter page!
VOLUNTEERING
Our work is never done, and we can use all the help we can get. One of the ways you can take part is by volunteering or joining in an event with us. Spread the word and get outside with us at the Special Bird Service Society. Help us spread the word and reach-out to other people who may be interested through our social media links or email.
CONTACT US
W̱SÁNEĆ & lək̓ʷəŋən peoples territory,
on the Salish Coast
of Turtle Island
Special Bird Service Society