OAKLAND, CA., February 17, 2022 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ — The New York Botanical Gardens commemorates Black History Month with a dynamic and educational program for children to celebrate the joy of the outdoors and explore the spaces of nature. He presents the book “Where’s Rodney?” written by Oaklandauthor based Carmen Bogan and illustrated by floyd cooper, the story of an urban African-American boy who wants nothing more than to be outside to explore nature. The book is read as part of a NYBG’s storytelling, activity time, and self-guided tours through the garden for children and families to learn about the cultural influences of the African Diaspora. The program is currently running through February 28, 2022.
“I am thrilled that Rodney’s story resonated with organizers of the New York Botanical Gardens. I wanted to inspire black children through this story, as well as help other children of color who have traditionally not not had the opportunity to visit national parks and see Rodney for themselves and understand that there is no better place to be than in the wild,” Bogan said.
Deeply committed to honoring pioneers in environmental science and agricultural education, NYBG this month features current activists and advocates who are building communities that foster representation, identity and diversity in the arts. and science. Explore the botanical heritage of the African Diaspora and the influential contributions of Black Americans to contemporary society.
The party, which began on February 1st, highlights black people who have contributed to community horticulture and urban agriculture and whose presence is important. It highlights people who can educate us about food and its relevance to culture and identity, especially when languages or cultural traditions around food have been banned and erased. This month, participants have long been prominent in their disciplines throughout the new York Region. Including children’s activities that educate and celebrate nature through “Where’s Rodney?” are essential to their emotional, mental and overall health and quality of life.
“The little boy captured in ‘Where’s Rodney?’ is our community’s future horticulturist and naturalist, but only if spaces like NYBG convey that he and other children like him know their presence is welcome and valued,” said Arvolyn Hill, director of the Everett Children’s Adventure Garden at NYBG. “We are very excited to include the book in our children’s programming and want it, along with our broader BHM program, to inspire joy in black children who have been underrepresented in national parks, backyards botanical gardens and other similar spaces. More than anything, we strive to reinforce the importance of green spaces and care for the natural world.”
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SOURCE The New York Botanical Gardens
