Wild men who caught and sang the sun in flight,

And learn, too late, they grieved it on its way,

Do not go gentle into that good night…

Rage, rage against the dying of the light.

• —Dylan Thomas

Dylan Thomas wrote those words as a plea to his father— a call for courage and defiance in the face of encroaching darkness. As we reach the longest nights of winter at the end of a year that had its own darkness throughout, Thomas’ rallying call to rage against the dying of the light feels especially inspiring in our work for wildlife.

I’m sure I’m not alone in feeling that the darkness overwhelmed 2025. It took over our government and in its authoritarian position, that darkness emboldened other dark elements. In our corner of the fight for justice, state and federal agencies continue to sideline science, silence public voices, and make decisions behind closed doors. Wolves are being trapped and gunned down in the Northern Rocky states. Killing contests will ramp up soon, targeting foxes, bobcats and the many other lives not protected by any state or federal regulations.

And once again, Mexican gray wolf Taylor — determined, resilient, and refusing to obey the lines humans draw — was captured and relocated south. And yet he keeps returning north to Mount Taylor, where habitat, prey and wildness promise a good life for a wolf, if only he could be left alone. 

Like many intrepid wolves before him, Taylor’s journey is a reminder that even against staggering odds, life pushes toward the light.

And so do you.

Every time you speak up at a commission meeting, submit a public comment, organize your community, or push back against policies that undermine wildlife protections, you are the shining beacon of light against all that darkness. 

As we prepare for 2026, one of the most powerful ways to rage against the dying of democracy is to build our collective strength. That’s why I’m thrilled that applications are now open for Building Power for Wildlife Justice, our eight-week grassroots organizing training launching in January. We need more leaders like you, ready to defend wildlife and democracy when both are under threat.

This holiday season, I invite you to join us in that spirit of fierce hope. Reflect on the past year, honor what we’ve lost, celebrate what we’ve built together, and recommit to the fight ahead. The nights are long, but the light is not gone — it’s carried by each of us, in every action we take, in every stand we refuse to abandon.

We know the light is coming, because we’re going to bring it.

In defiant celebration,

Michelle

December Commission Meetings
Even though few state wildlife commissions meet in December, these meetings remain key opportunities to defend wildlife protections. Decisions made now can set the stage for policies in the new year, so your awareness and engagement still matter. Keep an eye on your state’s commission calendar and make your voice heard—because wildlife can’t wait. Don’t miss your state’s meeting. 

Organizing Training Now Open
Want to turn your passion for wildlife into change? Applications are open for Building Power for Wildlife Justice, our eight-week organizing training starting in January. Learn how to mobilize communities, influence decision-makers, and build networks and campaigns in your state that defend wildlife and democracy. 

The deadline to apply is December 19, and spots are limited. This is your chance to gain the tools, strategies, and support to become an effective organizer. Apply today, or send this to someone you know who would be a good fit! 

Recap: 2025 Accomplishments
Our recent 2025 Townhall highlighted the incredible wins we achieved together this year! From defending public lands to pushing back against state attacks on wildlife, our community made real change. 

Watch the accomplishments video recap and see how your engagement fueled victories for wildlife and democracy. We hope this inspires you to keep fighting for a better future for all life.

Wear WFA Gear, Just In Time For the Holidays

The holidays are coming, and so is your chance to show your wildlife pride! Our WFA Bonfire store has fresh new apparel and gifts perfect for anyone who loves wildlife justice. 

Cozy hoodies, stylish tees, hats and more are ready to ship, but don’t wait: order by Saturday, December 6 to ensure your gifts arrive in time for Christmas.

Every purchase supports Wildlife for All’s work to defend wildlife and democracy. This year, you can give a sustainable gift that makes a difference.

New Mexico Fish and Game stops wandering wolf “Taylor” in his tracks, sends him south for the second time

Mexican wolf relocated after capture in northern New Mexico

Mexican Wolf ‘Taylor’ Back Home Near New Mexico’s Mount Taylor

Will Firearms, Ammo Taxes Become Wedge Between Hunters, Sports Shooters?

Wild Animals Deserve Rights, Too

Protect the Endangered Species Act

The federal government is rushing to weaken the Endangered Species Act, putting countless species at risk. Your voice can make a difference: submit a public comment by December 22 to stand up for wildlife and ensure protections remain strong.

Since this attack is proposing to change four aspects of the law in different dockets, we created a guide to help you craft your comments. Speak out today to defend one of our nation’s most critical conservation laws: Submit your comment.

New Evidence Undermines the “Kill to Protect” Assumption

A newly released peer-reviewed article led by WFA Advisor Dr. Adrian Treves is challenging the idea that killing predators reliably reduces livestock losses or improves coexistence outcomes. Read our full post on this study.