March 31, 2023 — The Society of Environmental Journalists is holding its annual conference in Boise, Idaho [2] this April. In light of concerns raised by members, the SEJ Board of Directors today issued the following statement in recognition of how participants may be affected by recent Idaho state legislation seeking to restrict reproductive health care and LGBTQ+ rights:

Given the changing landscape on gender and reproductive issues in the United States, SEJ, the leading organization supporting environmental journalists in the U.S., affirms its commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion — a core value for the organization [3] — and stands ready to assist members and conference attendees who may be affected by these restrictions.

Accomplishing our mission [4] relies on the wellbeing and safety of our members, and SEJ is committed to fostering and protecting a conference environment in which all members and conference attendees feel — and are — safe. We believe any discrimination based on gender identity or expression is damaging. During the conference, SEJ leadership encourages all attendees to connect with staff or board members [5], if they feel they need assistance in any way. SEJ firmly adheres to an anti-harassment policy [6] and will take immediate and appropriate action if necessary.

Members and conference attendees with questions or concerns should contact President Luke Runyon [7] or Executive Director Meaghan Parker [8].

Resources:

• Birth control and emergency contraception access and Boise distribution points [9]
• Northwest Abortion Access Fund [10] / @nwaafund / 1-866-692-2310
• Dart Center for Journalism & Trauma [11]
• Journalist Trauma Support Network [12]