I'd like to make a few comments regarding the #BirdNamesForBirds movement and the @AmOrnith:

1/x https://twitter.com/BirdNames4Birds/status/1277995340688490496

I signed the original #BirdNamesForBirds letter, written as a respectful request to the AOS to put in place a plan to change many eponymous bird names, because many of the individuals those birds are named after had racist beliefs manifested in reprehensible actions. 2/x

That letter recognized that renaming birds is not a simple process and comes with complications, and it was a sign of respect to the AOS that the authors addressed the letter to them and view the AOS as the authority in changing names. 3/x

I highly recommend that all #BirdNamesForBirds proponents (and anyone engaged in this issue) read Kevin Winker's @kevinwinker thoughtful essay on the history of North American bird names and the role of the AOS, and the issues involved in renaming. 4/x https://twitter.com/kevinwinker/status/1291116901318324224

To me, the present debate is fundamentally different than many of the past ones about birds names, in that the present one is focused primarily on the need to ensure birding and ornithology are inclusive. This is a key shift that makes the present moment uniquely important. 5/x

The announcement of the Thick-billed Longspur by @AmOrnith showed strong support in the North American Classification Committee for the idea that names can and should be changed for reasons of inclusion and anti-racism, which is great news. 6/x

However, delay of further comment from the AOS and the announcement from @AmOrnith of restriction of who can reply on social media is problematic. As a Fellow and supporter of the AOS (there are more than 400 of us--each has limited power), I do not support that approach. 7/x

I say this as a friend of the AOS @AmOrnith and #BirdNamesForBirds:

AOS, it was and is a sign of great respect that people are looking to you for leadership on this issue. Volunteer work on the NACC committee is much appreciated by the community. 8/x

However, no law of nature says that the AOS in the arbiter of bird names. Rather, it is a custom maintained through good behaviour and mutual respect to and from the birding and ornithological community. I believe it can continue to be maintained through wise leadership. 9/x

Part of wise leadership is, at least in my mind, listening and considering closely the input from the many dedicated volunteers in the #BirdNamesForBirds movement. I applaud the dedication of the people contributing to making bird names more welcoming to everyone. 10/10