Political Activism: Is it the Right Thing to do as a Master Naturalist?

The question of should Master Naturalists be involved in political activism is not one of whether it is right or wrong, but how it is done. Master Naturalists become naturalists because they are interested in and concerned about the natural environment. When issues such as land development or water issues arise, naturalists are the first to voice their concerns. This is an admirable trait and one of which the Texas Master Naturalist Program supports.

However, this is where the concern lies. The Texas Master Naturalist Program as a whole is a non-profit, non-political organization. Our mission is to educate the public and support the conservation of nature in the state of Texas. At no time can we as naturalists voice our opinions or promote a cause while representing the Master Naturalist Program. This means that during our Chapter, Board, or Outreach events, and\or when wearing any identifiable mark that we are Master Naturalists (hats, shirts, name tag, etc.), we are prohibited from making any type of political comment, statement, asking for a show of support on a political action, circulate a petition, etc. Simply stated, any action among members that would imply that the Master Naturalist Program itself is in support of any political action is prohibited and that person could be subject to an ethics violation and, in a worst-case scenario, lose their membership in the Master Naturalist Program.

So how can we be politically active and voice our concerns? By keeping activism activities totally separate from any work you perform or activities you attend for the Master Naturalist Program. Several Hays County Master Naturalist Chapter members are active in political activities, but carefully separate what they are doing from the Master Naturalist Program so that it is perfectly clear that the Master Naturalist Program is not involved. This is the same principle we exercise when advertising business, in which we do not use the Master Naturalist name as a promotional tool for commerce or to claim some specialized qualification.

So, stay active and informed. Just remember which hat you are wearing at the time and how your actions or words can affect the public's perception of the Master Naturalist Program and its membership.

Naturally speaking,

Dale
pres at haysmn.org