The American Ornithological Society is renaming birds to eliminate eponymous names linked to racism and colonialism, igniting debates among birders on tradition versus social equity.
Kenn Kaufman stated, "This controversy, though, is in its own league... Something at this scale, I don't think has ever happened before." This reflects the unprecedented nature of the debate.
The decision to rename over a hundred North and South American birds was prompted by increased awareness of social justice issues following events like George Floyd's death.
Birders are divided; some support the renaming plan to address historical injustices, while others are outraged, fearing the loss of the tradition associated with these names.
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