May 2025 Newsletter
Dear friends,
Usually spring is a time of renewal and hope for what the year holds. But this year feels very different, and frankly a lot darker, doesn’t it? Yet, our movement at Wildlife for All is reaching a critical mass and we’re feeling stronger than ever.
We recently released our new report resulting from our Theory of Change workshop and held our first national town hall. I was deeply inspired by the energy and commitment of advocates from across the country who joined us. It’s clear we are united in recognizing the profound moment we are in — a time where the fate of wildlife and the strength of our democracy are inextricably linked.
During our town hall, we grounded ourselves in the reality of the challenges we face, from the erosion of federal protections to the silencing of diverse voices. Yet, amidst these concerns, we also celebrated a significant victory in the groundbreaking reforms achieved in New Mexico. And we’re strengthened by the growing momentum we are building in states like Arizona, Colorado, and Nevada. This progress demonstrates that change is possible when we organize and fight for a more just and democratic future for wildlife.
Most importantly, in this newsletter, we’re announcing the launch of our campaign to call on courageous state leadership to join us in the frontline of defense of democracy and wildlife. Read to learn how your voice and action are critical to building the future we envision.
Thank you for being an essential part of the Wildlife for All community. Together, we are proving that a more just and wild world is not only possible, but within our reach.
With hope and determination,
Michelle Lute, PhD
Executive Director, Wildlife for All
What We’ve Been Up To
It’s been a packed and powerful month for wildlife advocacy:
Arizona’s Commission Rejects Petition to End Hounding
Despite overwhelming evidence and public support, the Arizona Game and Fish Commission rejected our petition to ban hounding—a cruel and outdated hunting practice. We’re not backing down. Read our response and learn what’s next.
Calling Out Media Complicity
When local journalism fails to challenge power, it fails the public—and wildlife. We broke down why factual reporting matters more than ever in the fight for coexistence. Read the blog →
Just Launched: Our New Legislation Tracker
Want to follow wildlife-related bills in real time? Check out our new Legislation Tracker to stay updated and take action.
Catron County Declares “Emergency” Over… Wolves?
In an outrageous move, Catron County, NM, declared a “state of emergency” over endangered Mexican gray wolves. This stunt is pure politics—driven by misinformation, not public safety.
Take action now with our partners Lobos of the Southwest to tell Governor Lujan Grisham to reject this fear-based resolution and stand strong for wolf recovery.
P.S. We’re seeing a similar response starting in California and are tracking this hysteria closely with partners.
Marsh Madness Winner: The Bog Turtle!
The tiny-but-mighty bog turtle pulled off an underdog win in our first-ever Marsh Madness bracket. Thanks to everyone who joined the fun and helped raise funds for wildlife!
What's Coming Up
May Commission Meetings Roundup
From Arizona to Michigan, we’re tracking every state where wildlife policy is on the line. See our latest blog to get involved.
Right now, we’re watching democratic norms erode: commissions stacked with political insiders, wildlife policy made behind closed doors, and extremists using misinformation to undermine science and public input. It’s clear our fight isn’t just about wildlife anymore. It’s about whether our governments will serve all of us—or only the loudest, wealthiest interests.
We’re also watching direct attacks on wild lives and places. The Endangered Species Act is being gutted. Federal public lands are being transferred to states, private interests, and militarized zones under the Department of Defense.
We’re launching a national campaign to get state elected officials on the record: Will they defend democracy and protect wildlife—or enable its collapse?
It’s critical that we get our state leaders on the record now—because too often, when federal protections are rolled back or national policies take a dangerous turn, states become the last line of defense for wildlife, public lands, and democratic rights. Silence is complicity—and we need clarity on where our leaders stand before the next crisis hits.
TAKE ACTION:
👉 First, email your state leaders
👉 Report a response
👉 COMING SOON: the Accountability Tracker (bookmark this page to see it)
From Victory to Vision: Help Transform Wildlife Governance
Wildlife governance is overdue for transformation—and lasting change requires sustained support.
After our SB5 win in New Mexico, Wildlife for All is expanding our push for nationwide reform grounded in science, equity, and public accountability.
By becoming a monthly donor, you’ll help:
- Power consistent advocacy to fix broken wildlife policies
- Mobilize diverse communities year-round
- Protect all species and ecosystems for the long haul
Join our movement for lasting change—make a monthly gift today.
Past Newsletter Entries
August 2026 Newsletter
This is what wildlife advocacy looks like
July 2026 Newsletter
These aren’t Isolated Tragedies. They’re a System Failing Wildlife
June 2026 Newsletter
What it takes to protect wildlife right now