Welcome to the Out in the Field (OiTF) Initiative
The OiTF Initiative was started in 2019 to make LGBTQIA+ TWS members more visible so that we can support and mentor each other, and work with our allies to foster a more inclusive, welcoming culture where diversity of all kinds is clearly embraced. OiTF has three simple goals: (1) to increase visibility of LGBTQIA+ wildlifers in TWS, (2) to build a community of LGBTQIA+ wildlifers, and (3) to identify ways to support LGBTQIA+ wildlifers, including students, in the wildlife profession. OiTF is housed within the Inclusion, Diversity, Equity and Awareness Working Group.
News & Resources
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Article
From Bee-eaters to Bats: Exploring the Diversity of the LGBTQ+ Experience Among Wildlife Professionals -
Guide
OiTF Packet: How to implement OiTF in your TWS Organization Unit -
Article
I Am One of You: A Gay Wildlife Biologist’s Perspective on Our Profession -
Article
Out in the Field: A New LGBTQ+ initiative takes shape within The Wildlife Society -
Pledge Card
OITF Goals and Pledge Card -
Blog Post
An outflowing of support for LGBTQ+ wildlifers
Contact
Questions? Please contact us at travis.booms@alaska.gov. You may find the contact information for our organizers below.