Finding Sanctuary

I recently braved the cold to visit the National Eagle Center in Wabasha, MN.

This wildlife sanctuary/museum – located on the banks of the Mississippi River – led the charge to designate the bald eagle as America’s national bird. While the eagle has been a U.S. symbol since it was featured on the Great Seal of the United States in 1782, it wasn’t “officially” our national bird until President Joe Biden signed a bill into law in December.

That legislation was spearheaded by the collective efforts of Preston Cook (a bald eagle advocate and curator), congressional leaders from across the aisle, and an alliance representing 36 Indigenous nations and four tribal organizations.

Talk about flocking together for a common cause. We need more positive action like this, especially during these troubling times. Should these once-endangered birds have a monopoly on being revered?

Everyone deserves an equal opportunity to find sanctuary and soar.